Psalms 32Blessedness of Forgivenessand Trust in God

Introduction

• Although David was a man after God’s own heart, he nevertheless sinned on several notable occasions:• improperly transporting the Ark

• committing adultery & murder

• numbering the people of Israel

• Psalms 32, written in the context of sinful and shameful transgression, extols the blessed state of being forgiven, and the necessity of trusting in God.

How Blessed (Psa. 32:1-2)!

• Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven.

• Blessed is he whose iniquity is covered.

• Blessed is he to whom iniquity is not imputed.

• Blessed is he whose spirit is not deceitful.

How Accursed (Psa. 32:3-4)!

• Cursed is he who, because of unacknowledged sin, experiences physical wasting away.

• Cursed is he who experiences daily groaning.

• Cursed is he who experiences God’s heavy hand.

• Cursed is he who experiences loss of vitality.

How Vital (Psa. 32:5-11)!

• Sin must be acknowledged; iniquity must not be hidden. We must, therefore, confess our sins, resulting in forgiveness, and pray, leading to pardon and protection.

• God offers instruction, teaching and counsel. Let us, therefore, show prudence and perception by trusting the Lord and obeying His will.

• Wickedness brings many sorrows, but righteousness bestows manifold favors.

Conclusion

• The apostle Paul quotes this Psalm in the book of Romans, providing evidence that man is not saved by his own good works.

• Just as Abraham was justified by faith in God (rather than faith in self), so also David speaks of the blessedness of the man who enjoys a right relationship with God based upon forgiveness rather than meritorious works or sinless perfection (Rom. 4:1-8).

Invitation

• Appealing to God for mercy, let us respond to the gospel plan of salvation: hearing, believing, repenting, confessing, and being baptized for the remission of sins (Rom. 6:3-7).