There is no stronger Greek word in the New Testament for mourning. It refers to a real grief as if for the loss of a loved one – “To mourn with a grief that cannot be concealed.”

In Psalm 51, David shows us what sorrow for sin is all about. The context surrounds his sins of murder and adultery. Nathan confronted David and told him the consequences of his sin would affect not just himself but those that he loved the most – his own children and grandchildren (2 Samuel 12:1-14).

David responds by saying, “For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight” (Psalm 51:3-4). David saw his sin as God saw it and the result was mourning and genuine repentance.

You see, when we’re really walking close with God we’re not preoccupied so much with the sins of others, but we see the reality of our own sinful hearts.

What is there in your life that no one else knows about? What are the secret sins that would cause you to be ashamed if you thought someone else at church knew? What is that one area of your life that comes to mind right now?

Do you love your family enough to deal with the secret sins in your life? The Bible says that the sins of the fathers are visited upon the children to the third or fourth generation (Exodus 20:5). Don’t pass on your failures and weaknesses to your children and grandchildren. Have the courage to humble yourself and deal with sin. “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13).

Morris Hull
Home Life Ministries

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