A wise man is strong and a man of knowledge increases strength. While the world focuses on physical strength, the greater strength is that which is spiritual.
The right kind of sorrow is often needful and brings with it certain benefits. Yet, it is in the joy of the LORD that God's people specifically find strength.
The Lord is the strength of His people. While it is true that we are called to do our part, God must add the necessary strength to accomplish the work.
Psalm 51 describes some of the dire consequences resulting from David’s sin with Bathsheba (see 2 Samuel chapters 11-12). Our passage commences with David’s testifying about his desire to be washed (Psalm 51:7). The next verse speaks of his desire to hear joy and gladness. David then goes on to express his desire for a clean heart and a right spirit. David was experiencing the debilitating results of his sin. Sin diminishes the spiritual blessings that God intends. In addition to these lost blessings, David also lost his joy. Joy is offered to the people of God, but never unconditionally. The conditions necessary for fulness of joy were discussed in the previous lesson, but it should be noted that the opposite actions yield contrary outcomes.
