1. Psalm 51:1-15

2. Context: The King of Israel, one of the most iconic rulers in human history, was just confronted by God about his wrongdoing; this song is his response to the confrontation.

3. (1-2) Intent: David’s prayer begins not with groveling, but with hope in the Lord truly being who He has claimed.
When I’m wrong, I should lean into God, not away from Him.

4. (3-6) Confession: David’s thoughts drift between His actions and God
(3-6) Confession: David’s thoughts drift between His actions and God. He accepts responsibility for His own decisions and speaks to God who has always seen his heart.
When I’m wrong, I should be talking to God about me.

5. (7-11) Petition: David asks God to do His part of the process in purifying him- the internal work. Each line is a request that God do something only He can.
When I am wrong, I should ask God to heal my heart, not just forgive my hands.

6. (12-15) Commitment: After David’s heart has been purified he commits himself to acting differently. Each line is a You/I couplet about how he will embrace a new lifestyle when he experiences the healing work of God.
When I am wrong, I should intend to live differently on the other side of God’s touch. He still desires holy people.

7. Conclusion: We do not have to convince God to help us with sin- He wants to- but we are asked to come to Him with it.