Introduction
• Although David was a man after God’s own heart, he nevertheless sinned on several notable occasions:• improperly transporting the Ark
• committing adultery & murder
• numbering the people of Israel
• Psalms 32, written in the context of sinful and shameful transgression, extols the blessed state of being forgiven, and the necessity of trusting in God.
How Blessed (Psa. 32:1-2)!
• Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven.
• Blessed is he whose iniquity is covered.
• Blessed is he to whom iniquity is not imputed.
• Blessed is he whose spirit is not deceitful.
How Accursed (Psa. 32:3-4)!
• Cursed is he who, because of unacknowledged sin, experiences physical wasting away.
• Cursed is he who experiences daily groaning.
• Cursed is he who experiences God’s heavy hand.
• Cursed is he who experiences loss of vitality.
How Vital (Psa. 32:5-11)!
• Sin must be acknowledged; iniquity must not be hidden. We must, therefore, confess our sins, resulting in forgiveness, and pray, leading to pardon and protection.
• God offers instruction, teaching and counsel. Let us, therefore, show prudence and perception by trusting the Lord and obeying His will.
• Wickedness brings many sorrows, but righteousness bestows manifold favors.
Conclusion
• The apostle Paul quotes this Psalm in the book of Romans, providing evidence that man is not saved by his own good works.
• Just as Abraham was justified by faith in God (rather than faith in self), so also David speaks of the blessedness of the man who enjoys a right relationship with God based upon forgiveness rather than meritorious works or sinless perfection (Rom. 4:1-8).