Summary: Does God forgive when we repent?

Do we confess our sins to God and to one another or hide behind lies and pride? Let’s look at Psalm 32?

How does happiness relate to forgiveness of sin, of guilt being covered, of honesty of spirit?

The one whose wrongdoing is forgiven, whose sin is covered over, is truly happy! The one the Lord doesn’t consider guilty—in whose spirit there is no dishonesty—that one is truly happy! (Ps 32:1-2 CEB)

What happens when we try to cover up our sins rather than confess them to God?

Before I confessed my sins, my bones felt limp, and I groaned all day long. Night and day your hand weighed heavily on me, and my strength was gone as in the summer heat. [Selah] (Ps 32:3-4 CEV)

To whom do we primarily confess our sin and what does He do about it?

I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah (Ps 32:5 ESV)

What should the faithful do without delay once sin is recognized?

Therefore let everyone who is faithful pray to You at a time that You may be found. When great floodwaters come, they will not reach him. You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble. You surround me with joyful shouts of deliverance. Selah (Ps 32:6-7 HCSB)

Who is qualified to teach the difference between right and wrong, the unrepentant or the one who repents of sin?

I will instruct you and teach you concerning the path you should walk; I will direct you with my eye. Don’t be like a horse or mule, without understanding. They are held in check by a bit and bridle in their mouths; otherwise they will not remain near you. (Ps 32:8-9 ISV)

What is the blessing that follows those who trust in the Lord?

Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. (Ps 32:10-11 KJV)

What happens to those who hide their sins compared to those who not only confess but forsake their sins?

He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will receive compassion. (Pr 28:13 LSB)

Apart from God, to whom else should we confess our sins?

Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. A prayer of a righteous person, when it is brought about, can accomplish much. (James 5:16 NASB)

Do we confess our sins to God and to one another or hide behind lies and pride? You decide!