Here we see that David’s heart is broken. He comes with a humble and repentant heart before God. He seeks reconciliation, mercy, and cleansing. He requests that God would restore to him a clean heart, gladness, and the joy of his salvation.
David doesn’t just say, “I’m sorry.” He means it. He pleads with God to have mercy on him. He acknowledges and feels the weight of his sins, which are “always before him” (Psalm 51:1-3). When we’re really sorry, we acknowledge our sins without making excuses and sincerely seek forgiveness.
When we are truly repentant, we want to learn and grow from our mistakes. David begs God to change His heart and restore their relationship: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me” (Psalm 51:10-12).
When our hearts are aligned with God’s, our actions will be, too (Psalm 51:17-19). And when that happens, God works through us to share His message of salvation with others (Psalm 51:13).
Lord God, I am so thankful for your willingness to forgive me. I know that on my own there is nothing I can do to ever be right with you because my sin has come between us. I also know that because of your great love, your tender mercy and your marvelous grace, you have provided a way of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus your Son. As your child, help me live every moment of every day in a way that brings honor to you and shows Jesus living in me. Give your peace to those who are hurting and grieving. I pray in the name of Jesus my Savior.