David’s sin of adultery led to his great prayer for repentance. Yesterday we noted where true repentance begins. Here are three more important steps.

Psalm 51:7-12
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 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.

4. Repentance desires cleansing.
   Sin stains the soul. Only God can cleanse the heart and wash us clean. Only God can blot out our sin.

5. Repentance desires renewed joy.
   Sin burdens the soul. David feels that his bones have been crushed. He desires that God restore the joy and gladness he once knew.

6. Repentance desires the resolve to obey.
   David asks that God re-create his heart. His “old” heart got him into trouble. He prays for an unwavering, steadfast spirit. He recognizes that he must rely on God to give him the power to willingly walk in obedience. He does not want to return to his sin.

Father, David’s prayer is mine. Please take away the stain. Lift the burden. Let me be joyful again in your presence. Don’t let me return to my sinful ways. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Tomorrow we will consider the final step of true repentance.