Steps to Recovery from Failure (Part 2)

Galatians 6:1-2; Psalm 51

Any addicted or dysfunctional individual may need an INTERVENTION to face their problem. This Psalm shows the healthy response to an intervention. David had heard the words of the prophet Nathan, "Thou art the man!" and judged himself guilty of adultery and murder. How did he respond and begin his recovery?

What was involved in David's "Recovery Program"?

I. A Plea for Forgiveness v.1-2 

A. Three words used for sin demonstrate (What I Am):

1. Transgression – open rebellion against God

2. Iniquity – a twisted state of heart because of sin

3. Sin – missing the mark of God's purpose for our lives

B. Three words used for forgiveness demonstrate complete cleansing:

1. Blot out – erase the record - forget what I did

2. Wash – – hard and deep accountability

3. Cleanse – Holy, inner cleansing

II. An Honest Confession v.3-6  (What  I  Must Do)

A. Rationalizing would not satisfy v.3

Unforgettable does not mean unforgivable.

B. Recognition of sin as being against God. v.4

Sin is a vertical phenomenon. What makes sin sin is its Godwardness.

The world doesn't understand how serious hell is because they don't understand how serious sin is.

C. Repentance was necessary to change a wayward heart.  v.5-6

Why we sin is never an excuse for sin.

An apology is not repentance. An apology speaks to the past while repentance speaks to the future.

III. A Holy Cleansing v.7-12  (What God Does)

A. Rejoicing in Heart and Removal of Guilt  v.8

B. Remission of Sin  v.9

C. Re-creation of desires  v.10

D. Renewal of Relationship  v.11

E. Restoration of Joy  v.12

IV. A Sacred Vow - v.13-15  (What I Will Do)

"Use me" is the natural response of the delivered.

V. God's Requirements - v.16-17  (What I Learn)
To be right with God, I must:

A. Recognize I am guilty  v.16-17a

B. Humble myself before God  v.17b

C. Receive God's gift of forgiveness  v.17c