How does a sinner pray to a God who created the world for his glory?

I am a sinner. Boy, am I a sinner. I mess up a lot, and regularly need to come back to first things: the mercy of God, the cross, the resurrection, the hope of new life in heaven with God forever.

God is not a sinner. He is perfect. His character is without blemish. And he has created the universe to display his own worth. He has created the world for his glory (Romans 11.36).

How does a sinner like me pray to a God like that?

Psalm 79.9 tells me, and is it ever good news! I came to this verse the other morning in need of forgiveness from God, and here is what I read: ‘Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and atone for our sins, for your name’s sake!’

There it is: a sinner prays to a glorious God by saying, ‘I have sin. I need forgiveness. You are glorious. Everything you do is intended to display your worth. So, please forgive me for your name’s sake.’

God’s glory does not mean he refuses to forgive my sin. On the contrary, it is the reason he forgives my sin. Do you need to confess some sin to God? Do so, and pray Psalm 79.9 from your heart.

Posted by Stephen Witmer on Mar 21, 06:19 PM