Accepting God’s Grace
Tess McCumstie (Victoria, Australia)

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. - Psalm 51:12 (NRSVUE)




Psalm 51 speaks to the brokenness of our hearts and our need to turn to the Lord for restoration. This psalm was written by David after he had committed adultery with Bathsheba. David expressed his contrition from the depths of his soul and asked for mercy, forgiveness, grace, and love.

We all can relate to the brokenness and shame David expressed in this psalm. Each of us needs God’s mercy and grace too. I remember when I first came to the Lord after years of running away. I was filled with guilt and regret, and I was ashamed of my past. I had so much darkness within me. But in Christ I found a profound sense of liberation and peace. I was overwhelmed by the Lord’s mercy and kindness, and I knew that I had found a new beginning.

Psalm 51 reminds us that no matter how we have sinned, the Lord is ready to forgive us and restore our relationship. When we approach in repentance, the Lord will meet us with a tenderness and compassion we cannot fathom and will abundantly pour out mercy and grace to us. The Lord receives us with open arms and fills us with love and joy.



TODAY'S PRAYER
Faithful God, thank you for your restoring forgiveness. Come into our hearts and remove desires that are not a part of your plan for us. Amen.


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TODAY'S READING
Psalm 51:1-12


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Christ offers me forgiveness, mercy, and love.


PRAYER FOCUS
People filled with regret