Psalm 51

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions” (v1). King David’s confession of sin demonstrates the path to finding peace and joy with the Lord. David recognized that his adultery was a sin against human relationships and a sin against God Himself (v4). He admitted wrong and cast himself on God’s “abundant mercy,” asking God to wash him “whiter than snow” (v7). David also asked God to give a new heart and a new spirit going forward (v10).

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation” (v12). The goal of repentance, forgiveness, and restoration is joy – the joy of a clean heart and right relationships