There are times in our lives when we feel that God can’t possibly use us. We feel that we’ve messed up so badly that God has rejected us. King David in the Old Testament felt the depths of discouragement after his sin with Bathsheba. He pleaded with God to cleanse his heart and renew his spirit,

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (Psalm 51:10)

The weight of our sins can seem overwhelming at times and the enemy seeks to burden us with guilt. When we come to God in prayer we discover that He can bring the cleansing that we need to refresh our spirits,

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Don’t let your sin keep you from God. God is waiting for you to come and renew your fellowship with Him. Satan is doing all He can to keep you from God who is the only resource that can bring true healing to your soul. David realized His need for God and the necessity of the Holy Spirit in his life,

Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. (Psalm 51:11)

Many of God’s people are not living in victory because they feel that their sins have sidelined them from ministry – they don’t feel worthy. You must realize that all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. The good news is that we can find forgiveness for our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ. Too many Christians are living in bondage because they have believed the lies of the enemy and they feel disqualified. Our lives may feel empty and we say, “What’s the use?” The next verse reveals the key to walking in victory,

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. (Psalm 51:12)

When I understand all that God has done for me and start to comprehend His amazing grace toward me then I can’t help but be filled with the joy of His salvation. I have no desire to sin when the joy of His salvation has filled my heart. His joy eclipses any momentary, fleeting pleasure that I may seek because my heart is filled with gratitude toward my Savior. The results of a cleansed heart are not only for our benefit. A transformed life influences others,

Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners will be converted to You. (Psalm 51:13)

God wants to work through you to encourage others. Don’t underestimate your capacity to minister for God.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

Follow me on twitter:  rickhiggins5