What do you do when guilt comes calling? After you’ve done something wrong and your conscience won’t leave you alone, turn to Psalm 51. It is a cry for mercy and forgiveness pouring from a repentant heart. It is often used on Ash Wednesday to set the tone for Lent, a time of self-reflection and sorrow over sin. Psalm 51 is written in prayer form so it is perfect for the Christian to use during personal devotions or prayer time. It also works in the classroom as you teach your students how to deal with their sin.
A Prayer of Repentance
Have you ever tried to explain away your guilty conscience? Have you used phrases like, “I didn’t mean it like that.” “I was just tired.” “It was just a joke.” “Everyone does it.” Well, that’s not how David dealt with guilt, and that’s not how God deals with it. When David felt sorrow over sin, he went before God with a contrite heart asking for forgiveness. That’s exactly what Psalm 51 is. And what did God do? He did what He always does, he forgives. So next time your sin weighs heavily on your mind, instead of sweeping it under the rug, pray Psalm 51 and receive the forgiveness God loves to give.
Psalm 51 Resources for Students
Psalms is a powerful book for students to study. Work through all 150 Psalms with your middle schoolers with this sketch notes unit. There are daily readings, note pages, devotions and bonus activities all ready to go! To learn more about confession and forgiveness, explore this unit based on Luther’s Small Catechism. Endlessly practical, it will teach your students how to lead a life of repentance.
If you are looking for more ready-to-use resources for your students, check them out in my store.
Looking for related articles? Check out:
7 Excellent Lent Resources for Families
Lent Devotions for Families to Remember the Special Season
Teaching Lent Activities in the Classroom
Looking for more related articles from other authors? Check out:
