We all need forgiveness. Whether for a carelessly spoken word or an egregious act, unless we seek and receive forgiveness, we miss out on the blessing and freedom that forgiveness provides. Tonight's psalm focuses on God's forgiveness toward us and the joy that is ours when we walk in it. We don't have to carry the weight of guilt or shame that our transgressions can bring. Because of the Savior, each new breath we take fills us with His mercies and love.  

Clear your mind now and open your heart to hear God's voice. Ask Him to speak to you through the following psalm. Find joy in God's forgiveness and allow it to lighten your heart, calm your mind, and relax your body. 

Blessed is the one 
whose transgressions are forgiven, 
whose sins are covered. 
Blessed is the one 
whose sin the LORD does not count against them 
and in whose spirit is no deceit. 
When I kept silent, 
my bones wasted away  
through my groaning all day long. 
For day and night 
Your hand was heavy on me; 
my strength was sapped 
as in the heat of summer. 
Then I acknowledged my sin to You 
and did not cover up my iniquity. 
I said, “I will confess  
my transgressions to the LORD.” 
And You forgave 
the guilt of my sins. 
Thereofre let all the faithful people pray to You 
whil You may be found; 
surely the rising of the mighty waters 
will not reach them. 
You are my hiding place; 
You will protect me from trouble 
and surround me with songs of deliverance. 
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; 
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you... 
Many are the woes of the wicked, 
but the LORD’s unfailing love 
surrounds the one who trusts in Him. 
Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; 
sing, all you who are upright in heart! 
PSALM 32:1-8, 10-11 

ADORATION: God's forgiveness is greater than our sin! He does not keep a record of our wrongs, and He is always ready to hear and forgive. Let's take delight in this promise and find joy and freedom in His forgiveness and love.  

CONFESSION: Think of a time when you refused to follow God's way. Confess the sin that came from following your own path. Ask for His forgiveness and for His deliverance and commit your life into His care.  

THANKSGIVING: Thank God for forgiving your transgressions and covering your sins. Praise Him for redeeming and restoring you. Rejoice in the Lord and be glad!  

SUPPLICATION: Lord, please soften my heart and show me any ways I've sinned against You today. Please forgive me and cleanse me from the weight I've carried because of it. Give me courage to work through the consequences that exist because of my sin and help me to keep looking to You for guidance and counsel for repair. Help me also to forgive myself and not hold on to any shame that tries to linger in my heart. Help me to fully receive and walk in Your grace. May I sleep peacefully tonight knowing that I am forgiven. In Jesus' name and power, I pray. Amen. 

This is an excerpt from Sleep Psalms: Nightly Moments of Mindfulness and Rest from Pray.com – a new devotional journal now available for pre-order on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.