Day 7

FORGIVENESS

"Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered." Psalm 32:1

The incredible and wonderful truth in this story is that as David did not hesitate to acknowledge his sin, God did not hesitate to forgive. Think about the significance of the words God used: "The Lord also hath put away thy sin: thou shalt not die."

Have you ever had to say to someone you respect or love, "I'm sorry, it's my fault. I have done you wrong."? Have you known what it is to have arms flung about you with a cry like, "I forgive you. Let's put it behind us."? Antagonism disappears, relief pours in, gratitude overwhelms and the relationship is restored in a moment. If you have then you will understand David's feelings.

Perhaps you have been wronged and have said, "I forgive you" to someone else and experienced the relief and joy of repairing a friendship. If you have then you will have some idea of God's feelings.

One of my favourite hymns, by Frederick Faber to music by John Stainer puts it like this:

     There's a wideness in God's mercy
     Like the wideness of the sea
     There's a kindness in his justice
     Which is more than liberty

     For the love of God is broader
     Than the measures of man's mind
     And the heart of the Eternal
     Is most wonderfully kind

God did not excuse David. He forgave him unconditionally. Isaiah does not play with words in Isaiah 1:18 and 55:7. God's forgiveness was absolute and David was free from any condemnation. Is it any different for us? Read once again Paul's statements Romans 5:6-10; 8:1-3,33-39; Ephesians 2:8-10; Hebrews 2:17,18; 4:14-16.