THE LOVINGKINDNESS AND TENDER MERCIES OF OUR GOD
David prayed for God’s mercy and forgiveness after being confronted with his sin with Bathsheba. He did not ask for God’s mercy based on himself, but according to God’s “lovingkindness” and “tender mercies.” David knew what his sin deserved, yet he cried out for God to forgive according to His nature, not his own. He did not bargain with God, promising some great sacrifice. He begged God’s forgiveness, willingly confessing his sin and repentance.
David’s prayer is a template for those of us who would confess our sins and seek forgiveness from God. For God has already demonstrated His own love for us in this, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:8). The Hebrew word translated “lovingkindness” is “chesed.” It’s a close synonym to the New Testament word for love, which is “agape.” It is God’s lovingkindness, His agape love that moved Him to send Jesus to die us. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
PRAYER: Dear God, we confess our sins to You, asking you to forgive us according to your lovingkindness and tender mercies, which Christ Jesus demonstrated by giving His life for us. Thank You for this great salvation, Lord. We are free from condemnation because we are in Christ. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to live for You today. In Jesus’ name, amen.