The Joy of Forgiveness
(Romans 4:1–12)

Of David. A Maskil.

Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven,

whose sins are covered.

2Blessed is the man

whose iniquity the LORD does not count against him,

in whose spirit there is no deceit.

3When I kept silent, my bones became brittle

from my groaning all day long.

4For day and night

Your hand was heavy upon me;

my strength was drained

as in the summer heat.

Selah

5Then I acknowledged my sin to You

and did not hide my iniquity.

I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,”

and You forgave the guilt of my sin.

Selah

6Therefore let all the godly pray to You

while You may be found.

Surely when great waters rise,

they will not come near.

7You are my hiding place.

You protect me from trouble;

You surround me with songs of deliverance.

Selah

8I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go;

I will give you counsel and watch over you.

9Do not be like the horse or mule,

which have no understanding;

they must be controlled with bit and bridle

to make them come to you.

10Many are the sorrows of the wicked,

but loving devotion surrounds him who trusts in the LORD.

11Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, O righteous ones;

shout for joy, all you upright in heart.