Psalm 32:1-7 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 32:1-7 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Verse 2Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Verse 3While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long.
Verse 4For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
Verse 5Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord," and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
Verse 6Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
Verse 7You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
Devotion
The hurricanes of this fall brought death and destruction with the rush of mighty waters to many. The metaphorical rushing waters in our lives — the consequence of unrepentant sin — seek to destroy us. Unrepentant sin brings guilt and shame that weigh down not only our spirit but also our physical body. Many physical and spiritual ailments stem from unresolved guilt and shame. We are left in a very precarious situation as if with the rushing of mighty waters approaching.
As the waters approach us, the psalmist paints a lovely picture of God's deliverance. He tells us that God provides a hiding place, a safe haven. Imagine the joy of those in the hurricane's path who found a hiding place and were saved! Our joy surpasses even theirs as our prayers for deliverance from sin are answered. We are safe from the rushing waters, secure in God's hiding place. God's promise is sure.
Prayer
God who calms the rushing waters of our lives, be with us in times of peril. Remind us of the safety you provide in your hiding place. Comfort us in that place. Offer us joy with the sure promise of forgiveness. Amen.