PsalmScripture (ESV)
Psalm 51 — Prayer of Repentance
Psalm 51 is David’s prayer of deep repentance after his sin with Bathsheba — a powerful model for confessing sin and asking God for mercy, cleansing, and a renewed heart.
Prayer
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
and cleanse me from my sin!
For I know my transgressions,
and my sin is ever before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned
and done what is evil in your sight.
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence,
and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
a broken and contrite heart, O God,
you will not despise.
Amen.
Scripture References
Context & Background
David wrote this psalm after the prophet Nathan confronted him about his adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband Uriah (2 Samuel 11-12). It is the most profound prayer of repentance in Scripture.