It's pretty easy to relegate sin to simply and merely the breakage of rules; the external action bring consequences scenario. This is how some adopt the point of view that everything is fine as long as you don't get caught, no one is hurt, or no one knows. It's a dangerous way to live a life.

But the Psalmist brings the conversation home in Chapter 51, to the inward parts of every human being. If sin is really a relational rupture (and it is) then repentance must also bring relational restoration (and it does!)

David doesn't begin his prayer by minimizing or justifying his actions. He gives no excuse for his circumstances. He appeals to God's mercy. He knows his sin has damaged the intimate relationship he had with God. He says, "Against you, and you alone, I have sinned." He isn't denying the harm he had done to others, he is recognizing that all sin ultimately fractures fellowship with God.

God's most precious desire isn't our performance or begrudging submission to His laws. What He wants is honesty. Not sacrifice, but surrender. David understood a very important principle: external correction without internal renewal will only perpetuate the cycle of sin. The heart of repentance isn't self-punishment, either. It's coming back into the light of His grace; trusting that He can handle the truth about us and what we've done ... as if He didn't know already.

When we hide, we remain fractured. When we confess, we are healed.

A broken and contrite heart is not a sign of weakness. It is a sure model of courage. It chooses relationship with the Creator over personal image. It is the thing God desires of every human being.

Think about a time, or times, when you've prioritized your image or reputation over truthfulness with God and true, honest repentance. Why do you think you chose that path in that moment?

What would it look like for you to bring your whole heart, good bad and ugly, into God’s presence today?