A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 88

Text: Psalm 25

THE HAUNTING POWER OF SIN

Why did the psalmist David seem so distressed by “the sins of his youth?” A number of reasons may be suggested. Let us consider three aspects.

1. Sin has great haunting power

Yesterday’s sins may seem unimportant, but they are not to be trifled with. Sin has great haunting powers. Our great Enemy can use the haunting power of sin to great effect:-

a) We can be crippled by the memory of our past sins

b) We may even lose our sanity if we are not freed from the haunting power of sin

c) We are tarnished by the sins of the past!

2. Sin has unknown power that can affect the present

a) Sin may be lying quietly in the life of the individual

b) If ever the individual lets down his guard, sin may well flare up

c) Sin will never admit defeat

3. God may not have dealt with our sin problem yet

a) There is the danger that God may yet visit the sins of our past

b) There is the problem of God chastening us for sins that have not been fully repented of

ASSURANCE THAT GOD WILL BE MERCIFUL

David needed to find assurance for his heart and mind that God would indeed forgive and cleanse him from all his transgressions, including the sins of his youth. With great gratitude, he wrote the following words to give thanks to God.

“Good and upright is the LORD
Therefore He teaches sinners in the way
The humble He guides in justice,
And the humble He teaches His way.”
Psalm 25:9

The assurance that God would indeed forgive the many sins and transgressions of youth is found in this phrase- “Good and upright is the LORD.”

The expression of God’s full forgiveness of our sins and transgressions is in the fact that He will “teach sinners” and that He will guide “the humble.” How wonderful it is to know and to have such a great and wonderful God!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~