I. Introduction (Verses 1-2)
- The psalmist appeals to God's mercy and steadfast love.
- The psalmist acknowledges his transgressions and asks for cleansing.
II. Confession of Sin (Verses 3-6)
- The psalmist acknowledges his transgressions and sins.
- The psalmist recognizes that his sin is against God alone.
- The psalmist acknowledges that God desires truth in the inward being.
- The psalmist asks for God's wisdom and understanding to be restored.
III. Request for Cleansing (Verses 7-12)
- The psalmist asks to be cleansed with hyssop and washed thoroughly.
- The psalmist asks to be purged and made to hear joy and gladness.
- The psalmist asks for a clean heart and a right spirit.
- The psalmist pleads for restoration of God's presence and the joy of salvation.
IV. Praise and Thanksgiving (Verses 13-15)
- The psalmist promises to teach transgressors God's ways.
- The psalmist declares that his tongue will sing aloud of God's righteousness.
- The psalmist acknowledges that God does not desire sacrifice, but a broken and contrite heart.
V. Prayer for Restoration (Verses 16-19)
- The psalmist asks for God's favor and the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
- The psalmist acknowledges that sacrifices will be acceptable when offered in righteousness.
- The psalmist anticipates that God will be pleased with the burnt offerings and the worship of Zion.
VI. Conclusion (Verse 20)
- The psalmist acknowledges that God will not despise a broken and contrite heart.
- The psalmist requests that God bless Zion and rebuild its walls.
- The psalmist expresses hope that God will delight in the sacrifices and offerings of the righteous.