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Psalm 69:13-18 

But I pray to you, LORD, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation. Rescue me from the mire, do not let me sink; deliver me from those who hate me, from the deep waters. Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up or the pit close its mouth over me. Answer me, LORD, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me. Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly, for I am in trouble. Come near and rescue me; deliver me because of my foes.

Prayers for repentance are prayers for mercy. Sin causes us to lose our leverage. We come empty with nothing to offer. The only basis for repentance is the goodness of God. 

David’s prayer for forgiveness was based on this goodness. David was asking for God to show His love…to give David what he did not deserve. And David is pleading for God’s great mercy…that God would not give him what he did deserve. David was in trouble and on a short timeline. He needed God to come quickly and rescue him. 

When you sin you do not have to “clean” yourself up before coming to God. You can’t. The stain cannot be self-removed. Repentance is always based on God’s love and mercy. God will never turn a deaf ear. He hears, forgives, cleanses, and restores. 

Father, I come before You because of Your love and mercy. I am asking that You give me what I don’t deserve and hold off on what I do deserve. Please do not hide Your face from me or delay Your actions. I am in desperate need of Your forgiveness today. Come near and rescue me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.