Study 87

Text: Psalm 25

THE PROBLEM OF SIN

The Scriptures are right when they describe God looking on the earth and making this declaration.

“The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men,
to see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
They have all turned aside,
They have together become corrupt;
There is none who does good, no not one.”
Psalm 14:2-3

The Apostle Paul, writing with great spiritual insight concur with this statement.

“For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God”
Romans 3:23

CONFESSION OF SIN

As the psalmist David grappled with the subject of sin in his life, he had to confront a very real problem.

“Remember, O LORD, Your tender mercies
and Your lovingkindnesses, for they are from of old.
Do not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions,
According to Your mercy remember me,
For Your goodness’ sake, O LORD.”
Psalm 25:6-7

1. “The sins of my youth”

What these sins are, we are not told. But we can still appreciate the significance of this plea, because we remember only too well the sins of our youth!

2. Recognition of the gravity of sin

David did not dismiss lightly the fact that he had sinned against the Lord. He did not gloss over his sin problems of the past! Sin must always be dealt with in the only way the Scriptures teach! Sin must be dealt with deep sorrow, remorse and repentance.

3. The basis of David’s plea

David’s plea for forgiveness reveals an important fact. He came under great conviction of sin and thus pleaded as he did. He pleaded forgiveness on three grounds!

a) The tender mercies of God

b) The lovingkindness of God

c) The goodness of God

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~

Released 7th August 2005, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore