Connect Psalm 130:4 with 1 John 1:9 on confessing and receiving forgiveness. A Cry from the Depths—Psalm 130:4 “ But with You there is forgiveness, so that You may be feared.” Assurance for the Confessor—1 John 1:9 “ If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” What Both Verses Hold in Common • God Himself is the sole source of forgiveness. • Forgiveness is available right now, not someday. • The result is a renewed relationship marked by reverence and purity. Forgiveness in Psalm 130:4—A Brief Look • The psalmist speaks “from the depths” (v. 1), admitting total inability to rescue himself. • God’s forgiveness is highlighted, not man’s effort. • Purpose: “so that You may be feared.” Awe grows when grace is tasted. Confession in 1 John 1:9—A Closer Look • “If we confess” — agreement with God about sin, not mere admission. • “He is faithful and just” — forgiveness rests on God’s character and the finished work of Christ (cf. Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). • “Cleanse us from all unrighteousness” — more than a legal pardon; it is moral purification (cf. Titus 2:14). Connecting the Two Passages 1. Same God, same grace • Psalm 130 announces forgiveness; 1 John shows the pathway: confession. 2. Reverent relationship • Psalm 130 → fear (reverent awe). • 1 John → cleansing, enabling intimate fellowship (v. 7). 3. Confidence, not hesitation • The psalmist’s cry is met with mercy; John calls believers to step into that mercy daily. Practical Steps for Today • Admit: Come “from the depths” with honest acknowledgment of sin. • Agree: Call sin what God calls it—no excuses, no blame-shifting. • Ask: Rely on God’s faithfulness and justice demonstrated at the cross (Romans 3:24-26). • Accept: Believe His word—“there is forgiveness … He is faithful and just.” • Adore: Let forgiveness fuel reverent worship and obedient living (Hebrews 12:28-29). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 32:1-5—David models confession and freedom. • Proverbs 28:13—Concealment vs. confession. • Isaiah 55:6-7—Abundant pardon promised. • Micah 7:18-19—God delights to show mercy. • Ephesians 1:7—Redemption through Christ’s blood. • Hebrews 4:16—Bold approach to the throne of grace. |
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