God, give me mercy from your fountain of forgiveness! I know your abundant love is enough to wash away my guilt. Because your compassion is so great, take away this shameful guilt of sin. Forgive the full extent of my rebellious ways, and erase this deep stain on my conscience.

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Against you, and you above all, have I sinned. I know that you delight to set your truth deep in my spirit. So come into the hidden places of my heart and teach me wisdom.

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Purify my conscience! Make this leper clean again! Wash me in your love until I am pure in heart. Satisfy me in your sweetness, and my song of joy will return. The places crushed within me will rejoice in your healing touch. Hide my sins from your face; erase all my guilt by your saving grace.

 

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a faithful spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation. Hold me close to you with a willing spirit that obeys whatever you say.

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Then I can show others who carry guilt how loving and merciful you are. They will find their way back home to you, knowing that you will forgive them. 

 

Your delight is not in my religious performance or the sacrifices I might offer to you. My sacrifice is a broken spirit and contrite heart before you which you never despise.

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And when we are fully restored, you will rejoice and take delight in every offering of our lives as we bring our sacrifices of righteousness before you in love!