Today's Psalm brings us to one of the lowest points of David's life. Standing tall in his royal status, David soon learned that even he, the king, was not above God's law. In one act of pride, David had broken half of the Ten Commandments in one blow when he willingly looked upon his neighbor's wife (coveted), had her husband killed (lied and murdered), and taken Bathsheba for his own (stolen and adulterated). Now David carried the weight of his shame and guilt and was desperate for forgiveness. His latest actions had required a massive repentance on his part, and so it was that, with sorrow pouring out of his broken spirit, David humbly recognized how deeply he needed to be restored by God.

Society today makes it difficult to appear anything but perfect, and in complete control of our imperfect lives. But many of us are walking around with a nearly broken spirit, repentant of past (or present) sins, desperate for the Lord's forgiveness, but fearful of what He may require of us. God only wants our heart (Ps. 51:17) - a sacrifice of pride - for it is pride that keeps us from repentance. God desires an abundant life for us (Jn. 10:10) but we allow our fears and doubts to consume us allowing pride to take over. Repentance must happen before we can be restored; like David, we CAN be restored.

I love that God saw fit to make David's life so transparent to us! He allows us to see David at his very worst and most vulnerable, as well as those times when he was so close to the Lord and his spirit just sang in praise. God knew that we would need a real-life example to see that a real relationship with the Lord, no matter where we are in our spiritual walk, is more than possible.

If you find yourself needing restoration today, go to the Father right now with a humbled heart and trust him with your broken spirit. God is waiting to restore you to a life full of his provision, blessing, mercy, and grace bound by forgiveness and love.

Suggested Prayer: Lord, I believe that you desire an abundant life for me, and I know you have the power to forgive me, to restore me, and to heal my broken spirit. I come to you today with a humble heart...Create in me a clean heart. In Jesus' name, Amen.

1.    Psalm 51:12 (CSB).

Today's Encounter was written by: Veronica B.