We tend to misunderstand repentance—we see it as a dreary duty that we have to perform, an entrance fee to God’s grace, or we can relegate repentance to a legalistic, fear-based, reaction focused only on avoiding punishment.

Scripture, however, presents repentance as a saving grace, a divine gift through which Christ frees His people and draws them into a renewed joy. It presents repentance as a gospel-centered action, motivated by a love for Christ and recognition of the holiness and glory of God.

In Psalm 51, David records his walk-through repentance. Having been called out on his sin with Bathsheba he is confronted with his sin, the truth about himself and his condition before a holy God, the effects of sin in his life, his need for mercy and grace. This isn’t a moment of fleeting depression and sorrow for being caught, but the clear thoughts of a man who has become aware of his responsibility and the reality of his sin.