Psalm 51 Result

Our meditations in Psalm 51 have focused on David and his repentance. He did not "work" for his restoration, but once it was complete he had a practical response. We do not earn our salvation, but once we are "saved" our mode of life is to produce fruit to His praise.   

To summarize our previous thoughts, verse 1 records David's contrition. He recognized the One with Whom he was dealing. That is a good starting point. Then he agreed with his condition in verses 2, 3, and 5. "Iniquity, sin, transgressions, evil," are some of the descriptors. This is not a flattering portrait.

So he does the only effective thing that he can: confesses his depravity. The target of David's rebellion was the Compassionate God. David also realized that his Judge would be righteous and justified in whatever he did. There is no presumption here. (V. 4)

And from this foundation, correction arises. Verses 6-12 shows with David beginning at truth and wisdom. Speak the truth and receive wisdom. And look at the results: "purify, wash, joy and gladness, healing, hiding sins, create, renew, do not cast away, restore, sustain."

Out of a grateful heart, we and David make a commitment. We have reached our last contemplation.
    13 Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners will be converted to You.14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, the God of my salvation; Then my tongue will joyfully sing of Your righteousness. 15  O Lord, open my lips, That my mouth may declare Your praise.

Experience is the best teacher. And David has seen God's ways intimately. The most powerful witness we have is "my story." David's story is powerful and compelling because we can all identify with him to some extent. There are no "big" sins. Just sins. And the result of our story is "singing" of His righteousness. My lips will praise Him.

And finally we experience communion with the Triune God.
    16  For You do not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; You are not pleased with burnt offering. 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.

A "broken spirit" is not one groveling in despair and defeat. It is one that is yielded and committed. Pride is excluded as is self righteousness and self confidence. What a transition from the beginning of the chapter. Time after time we learn that God is the God of the second chance. David reveled in that new beginning.

Is there a better way to begin? "Create in me a clean heart, oh God."