The Psalmist prayed, Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me (Psalm 19:13a NKJV).
When I read the above verse, I wanted to learn more. What did David mean by presumptuous sins?
The NLT uses the word “deliberate,” and the NIV uses “willful.”
Presumptuous sins are those deliberate, willful acts that we do or things we say when we know we shouldn’t. We assume God will forgive us.
This disturbs me. Does it you?
In his book, Conversation with God, Lloyd John Ogilvie states, “In short, presumptuous sins are those we do willfully, while falsely thinking it doesn’t really matter.”
Which sins don’t matter?
Are we taking liberties that aren’t ours to take? I’m not talking about those who think they are Christians because they are good, moral people and attend church. I’m talking about me—a believer. A follower of Christ.
David’s prayer caused me to ask, what sins do I commit that would be considered willful? The ones I think don’t really matter. I’ve failed to pray when I said I would. Lacked concern for someone who could use my help. Talked about someone unfairly. Grumbled and complained.
Should I sweep these matters under a rug because God understands, or do I need to repent in total surrender to Him?
I hope to live for God and possess a righteous character. My prayer is for the Holy Spirit to convict me when I fall into deliberate sin. I want to confess these sins and surrender my all to Christ, so I grow in my life with God and honor Him.
Like David, I don’t want sin to have dominion over me. I wish to have a greater impact on those around me and be led by faith, hope, and love. To be an effective witness and spread mercy and grace. I desire to reach out and help someone less fortunate, encourage others with God’s Word, pray for the sick and hurting, and be a friend.
David continued his prayer, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer (Psalm 19:14 NKJV).
This verse, too, is my prayer.
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