Day 41: Pardoned

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 32:1-11

Central Thought: True freedom comes through repentance

On August 9, 1974, power changed in Washington, DC when President Richard Nixon passed the presidency to Gerald Ford, the only non-elected president of the United States. A few weeks later, on September 8, 1974, Ford gave former President Nixon a full and complete pardon. Technically, Nixon was declared guilt free for anything that he did illegally during his presidency. In reality, few forgave or forgot Nixon’s alleged role in the Watergate cover up. Nixon never admitted his guilt, and the accusations against him assaulted him until the day he died.

King David likewise experienced a full and complete pardon for the sins that he committed. Unlike Nixon, he readily admitted his guilt. It was this confession of guilt that actually allowed him to move from guilt and shame to deliverance and the freedom to live openly before God.

Many Christians live in a state of denial and bondage because they refuse to admit their guilt and ask for forgiveness of their sin. The Bible teaches us to admit when we have done wrong and ask God to forgive us. We must remember that ‘hidden” sins are never hidden from us or God. Each of us can live free of guilt if we will openly confess our hidden sins and accept God’s unconditional pardon.

Devotional Prayer: Lord, help me to crucify pride and admit my weaknesses before You.

Today’s Bible Reading: Exodus 30:11-31:18; Matthew 26:47-68; Psalm 32:1-11; Proverbs 8:27-32