How to Repent

Read and meditate on: Psalm 51, 1 John 1:9-10 and 1 John 2:1-3. The mature Christian promptly deals with sin throughout his/her life in the following way:

Confession of sin    →    Godly sorrow    →    Asks for forgiveness    →    Obeys in peace

King David was confronted by the prophet Nathan for his sins of adultery and murder. In Psalm 51 we read how David dealt with this sin:

1st: Confession of sin.

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9
“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.” Psalm 51: 1-3

2nd: Godly sorrow.

“Against thee…have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight:” Psalm 51:4.
In 2 Samuel 12:16-20 we can read how David fasted and prayed to God in sorrow.

3rd: Asks Christ and others for forgiveness.

“…wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness…Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:7-10

4th: Obeys in peace.

“Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation…Then will I teach transgressors thy ways…my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness…my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.” Psalm 51:12-15

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