The quality of life and the quantity of living is at risk. A negotiation has commenced. Some envision this as a court of law where two adversaries stand before a judge. The prosecutor presented his case and the judge determined the accused guilty beyond any reason of doubt for the accused admitted their guilt. The law is clear. Now the court listens to a plea before sentencing. However, I am regarding this psalm as two lovers sitting next to each other discussing the one’s violation of their marriage covenant.
King David committed adultery and arranged the death of the adulteress’ husband to hide his sin from his family, peers, and the nation. (2 Samual 11:1-12:25) David violated the covenant with the Lord God who had called him to be king of Israel while he was a boy serving as the family shepherd. David violated five of the covenant’s ten commandments the Lord had with Israel. (Exodus 20:1-20; Deuteronomy 5) Moses warned, “Walk in all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” (Deuteronomy 5:33) David did not walk in the ways of the Lord his God. The quality of his life and the quantity of living is at risk. Their covenant agreement is clear.
God’s love is the one binding thread David is holding on to save him. David is asking for a complete and absolute pardon. “Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.” (2) How will the lover that he violated with five sins of their covenant respond? David’s quality of life and quantity of living is in the power of the Lord God.
