Psalm 32
1Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
2Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
3While I kept silent, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long.
4For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
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
6Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
7You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
8I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
9Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
10Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
11Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
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Psalm 32 is one of seven penitential psalms, also known as Psalms of Confession. These psalms are especially useful during the 40 days of Lent, when it’s part of our Christian practice to more intently think about our sinfulness, and to ask for God’s forgiveness.
The psalmist seems to know our human nature to sin, and of our wanting to hide our faults, and wanting to keep our guilt secret. But, by not owning up to our wrongs, to ourselves, or others, or even thinking that we can hide them from God, sin will inevitably weigh us down, drain our strength, eating away at our very core of body, spirit, and life.
But oh, the cleansing relief that can be ours, if we make our confessions to God, this Lent, or better yet as a regular practice. Then, as we embrace His faithful, loving response of grace and complete forgiveness, we’ll receive even more of His gifts of freedom, joy, and real happiness! Then praises to God will flow out of us as gratitude for His perfect love, mercy and goodness!
Psalm 32 includes three times the word “Selah”, of which there is multiple meanings, including: to pause, and to consider what God is doing; or a time to reflect on what has just been said or sung, it can also mean to give praise to God. Each of these meanings are so appropriate for us during Lent and can enrich our Lenten experience, and our relationship with the Lord for all of our days.
Prayer: Lord God, During this time of Lent, and in the days that follow, may we take the time to consider You, and your many wondrous and loving works on our behalf. Help us to open our hearts and lives more fully to you. In the Name of Jesus our Savior we pray. Amen.
—Rhonda Grunwald