PRAYER FOR MERCY | PSALM 51 | LEE SYKES

Intro The first and most important thing we pray for ... Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love. (v1) 1. We need Mercy (v1-2) Mercy: to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior Transgression: to cross the line / mark in the book Iniquity: to be twisted / warped Sin: to miss the mark/goal 2. We need Responsibility (v3-6) No excuses, rationalizing, blaming - “I know” … “I have”. Perspective (v4): sin against others, self (1 Cor 6:18), but God! Recognition of original sin (v5) and need for deep change (v6) 3. We need Cleansing (v7-12) v7. Hyssop: blood on doors (Exodus 12:22), purifying (Numbers 19:18). v8. Joy instead of mourning (Isaiah 61:3) v10. Create – as in Genesis – a new heart (Ezekiel 36:26) 4. We need Motivation (v13-19) humbly helping sinners. Forgiveness inspires worship Hatred for offerings from impure heart (Isaiah 1:11-18) Heart for church, community, nation. Finally – objects of mercy