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What is a Contrite Spirit? – Viral Believer
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What is a Contrite Spirit?

Introduction

In our modern society, the term “contrite spirit” may not be a commonly used phrase. However, as Evangelical Christians, it is essential for us to understand its meaning and significance within our faith.

The concept of a contrite spirit is derived from the Bible and is closely connected with our relationship with God, our repentance, and our spiritual growth. In this blog post, we will explore the meaning of a contrite spirit, its biblical foundation, and its relevance to our lives as followers of Christ.

A contrite spirit refers to a genuine sense of sorrow or remorse for one’s sins and a heartfelt desire to turn away from those sins and seek forgiveness from God. It is an essential component of repentance and is what enables us to experience God’s grace and mercy.

To have a contrite spirit means to recognize our shortcomings and humbly approach the Lord, acknowledging our need for His forgiveness and guidance. Now, let us delve deeper into the concept of a contrite spirit and its biblical foundations.

contrite spirit

Biblical Foundations of a Contrite Spirit

A contrite spirit is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. Several passages in the Scriptures emphasize the importance of having a contrite spirit in our relationship with God.

Psalm 51:17

Psalm 51:17 (NKJV) says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—These, O God, You will not despise.” In this passage, King David acknowledges his sinfulness and expresses his deep remorse and desire for forgiveness.

A contrite spirit is presented as the appropriate response to our sins, and it is this humble and repentant heart that God desires from us.

Isaiah 57:15

Isaiah 57:15 (NKJV) states, “For thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.'”

This verse highlights God’s willingness to be close to those who have a contrite spirit. It is in our humility and contrition that we can experience God’s presence and restoration.

Isaiah 66:2

Isaiah 66:2 (NKJV) reads, “For all those things My hand has made, and all those things exist,’ says the Lord. ‘But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.'”

Here, the Lord is expressing His desire for people to approach Him with a contrite spirit, recognizing their sinfulness and dependence on Him. It is this humble attitude that God values and seeks in His people.

The Importance of a Contrite Spirit

A contrite spirit is essential for several reasons:

Repentance and Forgiveness

Having a contrite spirit is a prerequisite for genuine repentance, which is necessary to receive God’s forgiveness. Acts 3:19 (NKJV) tells us, “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.”

When we approach God with a contrite heart, we demonstrate our sincere desire to turn away from our sins and seek His grace and mercy.

Humility

A contrite spirit fosters humility in our lives. It is a recognition of our sinfulness and our need for God’s forgiveness and guidance. This humility allows us to grow in our relationship with the Lord and to be more receptive to His will for our lives.

Spiritual Growth

A contrite spirit is essential for our spiritual growth as believers. When we acknowledge our sins and weaknesses and approach God with genuine repentance, we create an opportunity for Him to work in our lives and mold us into the image of Christ.

This process of sanctification is crucial in our journey as Christians.

Drawing Near to God

James 4:8 (NKJV) encourages us, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” A contrite spirit enables us to draw near to God, knowing that He is willing to forgive and restore us.

When we seek Him with humility and repentance, we can experience the closeness and intimacy of His presence.

Cultivating a Contrite Spirit

To cultivate a contrite spirit, consider the following practices:

  1. Regular self-examination: Take time to reflect on your thoughts, words, and actions. Recognize areas in which you have sinned or fallen short and bring them before God in prayer.
  2. Prayer: Pray for God’s help in developing a contrite spirit. Ask Him to reveal areas in your life where you need to repent and seek His forgiveness.
  3. Reading and meditating on the Scriptures: Study the Bible to gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His expectations for your life. Allow the Holy Spirit to convict you of sin and lead you to repentance.
  4. Confession: Be open and honest with God about your sins, acknowledging your need for His forgiveness and mercy.
  5. Fellowship with other believers: Engage in a community of faith, where you can share your struggles, receive encouragement, and be held accountable for your spiritual growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a contrite spirit is a vital aspect of our Christian faith. It is the humble and repentant heart that God desires from us as we recognize our sins and seek His forgiveness.

By developing a contrite spirit, we can grow in our relationship with the Lord, experience His presence and restoration, and continue on the path of spiritual growth. Furthermore, cultivating a contrite spirit allows us to draw near to God, fostering humility and repentance in our lives.

As followers of Christ, let us strive to cultivate a contrite spirit, recognizing our need for God’s grace and mercy. By doing so, we can experience the richness of His love and forgiveness, and become the people He has called us to be.

May our contrite hearts be a testament to the transforming power of God’s grace, as we humbly seek to walk in His ways and honor Him with our lives.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.