Scripture Reading: Psalm 32
It is not a pleasant task to look at ourselves as we really are. It is so difficult to do it honestly that, in fact, we usually do not do it at all, except when we are forced to. Our natural tendency is to deny anything within ourselves that is uncomplimentary.
But confession of the darkness of our hearts is absolutely necessary. It is not only necessary for emotional health (even secular psychiatrists would tell us that), but for spiritual life. There is no forgiveness with the living God unless there is a sincere acknowledgment of sinfulness and a willingness to turn from that sin. When there is true repentance before God, there is forgiveness. And this forgiveness is the basis for all joy. Sin is the fundamental problem of the human heart and until it is dealt with properly, there can be no lasting joy.
Psalm 32 is one of the confession Psalms of David. In it we see a description of a heart tortured by unconfessed sin and the restoration of joy based on humble confession before God and His merciful forgiveness.
It is said that the great 4th century theologian, Augustine (AD 354 - 430), used to weep when he read the 32nd Psalm and had its verses written on the wall beside his death bed. It would serve us well, now, to remember that when we face death, the only thing that will matter is whether or not we are forgiven by the living God. "How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered" (Psa 32:1).
