Re:Verse reading–Psalm 32 (day four)
The Psalmist gives us a model for discipleship in this chapter. Verses 1-4 describe his experience in sin. God weighs heavily on his soul (conviction) and brings him to repentance. Verses 5-7 describe his response to the conviction…confession, and the result of the confession…joy. Finally, in verses 8-11, the Psalmist encourages the reader to trust in the Lord. With trust, comes loving kindness and joy. This is the same model that Christ gave Peter…’when you go through a trial and learn from it, share it with others.’ In Luke 22:31-32, it says, “And the Lord said, ‘Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you (plural), that he may sift you (plural) as wheat. But I have prayed for you (singular), that your (singular) faith should not fail; and when you (singular) have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.’” As difficult as repentance and confession is, we can still encourage others in their faith and trust in the Lord. The result is joy…for us and for them.
Thank you very much for this post. Yesterday I felt the Lord leading me to do this very thing with someone I have been trying to lead to the Lord for a long time. Your post confirmed it for me.
Today I was able to share a huge failure on my part and gave my testimony of God’s faithfulness through it all. I told her I know He can do the same for her. She was genuinely encouraged by my testimony and it seems something changed. I am so thankful to God for His faithfulness. Even when we think we have blown it greatly and things are impossible, He is still working. Reminds me of a song that says “nothing is wasted.” May He be forever praised.
Thanks again for the post.