Day 1 of 21 – Mercy

Scripture:

Psalm 51:1-2 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

Observation:

In this Psalm, David recognizes his need for mercy and requests it based on God’s character. God is loving and merciful. There are three words used for sin in this passage.

Transgression (or trespass) is a violation of a boundary or law. It is an act and or event.

Iniquity goes deeper. It is the indwelling sin nature in the heart and in the mind that allows the transgression to happen.

Sin is the general term for missing the mark of God’s holiness and is a violation of Gods will.  

Application:

We need God’s mercy. A main part of fasting is grieving over our sin that has grieved the heart of God. We are to confess specific trespasses, ask God to cleanse our iniquity, and to wash us thoroughly from our sin.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for today. Lord, I ask that You would forgive my sin and cleanse me from my iniquity and unrighteousness. Have mercy on me and help me to see my sin the way You do. Please purify me that I may be prepared for an encounter with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Worship: