inspired by Psalm 51 and War of Words by P.D. Tripp

Have mercy on me, O God,
because you are hesed.
I’m counting on your faithfulness,
mercy, and steadfast love
to delete my sinful words and
to wash my mouth out with soap.

Not just my mouth,
but also my heart attitude.
You are the one who’s most offended
although others have been sliced by
my sarcasm and unpleasant expressions.

Holy Spirit, you rightly convict me of
pride, jealousy, and discontentment.
Prick my conscience when I am tempted to
sweep my word crimes under the carpet.

My tongue has been getting me into trouble
since the day I was born.
Even worse, my heart is deceitful and always
tells me how (self) righteous I am.

God, please forgive my word crimes that stem from
my heart of sin.
Forgive me, O Lord, and make me like a
fresh blanket of pristine snow.

Don’t reject me!
I’m begging you!

Restore my joy, which comes from
the blood of Jesus.
Exchange my word crimes for
word wisdom to share.

Repentance and restoration are for all.
They’re the catalysts for change.
I praise you, God, for your faithfulness
in forgiving my word crimes.

(Read Psalm 51 here.)