“Restore to me again the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.
Then I will teach your ways to sinners, and they will return to you.”
Psalm 51:12-13 (NLT)
These verses come in the midst of the great confession song of David. His psalm was written after the unusual, but effective, confrontation by Nathan regarding David’s adultery and murder.
It is a very hopeful psalm for me because it reminds me that no matter how far I fall, I can return to a restored relationship with my Lord when I come to him honestly and humbly and confess my sin.
What struck me when I read through these verses this time, was that David expressed to the Lord that he would use his sin and restoration experience to tell others about the greatness of God’s mercy and forgiveness.
I’ve fallen into the trap, at times, of thinking that I can only minister to others through my strengths and victories. And while this can be true, what can also truly speak into people’s lives are the times I’ve failed miserably, run to God for mercy, and been granted a return to joy.
So take heart my friends! If you’ve messed up–even if it’s a BIG mess up–God can use it to draw others to himself if you let him.
What a wonderful post…and an incredible picture! 🙂
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD2PJ0xbAdY&feature=related
ONE of my all time favorite songs by Keith Green! basically it is this Psalms…
Hi Lisa!
Thank you for stopping by and following my blog.
I relate to your post. In my quiet time this morning, I am thankful God's mercy is brand new daily and he won't ever give up on me(:
This is a wonderful post. And absolutely true. We don't have to be perfect to start spreading the word. None of us are perfect anyway! There are many, many times that I'm glad that I'm forgiven. 🙂