by Deacon Betsy Lazarek
“Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins; do not let them rule me. Then I will be blameless and cleansed from blatant rebellion. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:13–14
Here we see the psalmist writing to his God of his desire to be protected from “willful sins.” On close examination you see that he is praying for a strong inner will and the ability to choose to say “no” to particular temptations. He realizes that temptations and sins have the power to enslave him (“don’t let them rule me”) and manifest his tendency to rebel against the Lord and His will for his life (“cleansed from this blatant rebellion”).
We often think of Lent as a time of personal purification. When it comes to those sins we willfully commit, instead of simply searching for the strength or schemes to avoid those nagging sins, why not ask the Lord to give you the will and the spiritual power to not even desire to do them. Don’t be general, be specific (name those sins that occupy your mind). Don’t be shy—be bold and ask believingly, knowing that you are forgiven through the precious blood of Jesus.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I no longer want to pretend when it comes to my life before you. I know that you know the sins I commit, those I willfully choose and even enjoy. I am so sorry. Please give me a new and Christ-pleasing will. And may I begin to choose actions and thoughts and words that are acceptable and pleasing to you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.