The setting of Psalm 51 is well-known. Soon after the revelation of David's sin with Bathsheba (adultery and murder in an attempt to cover the relationship), David pens this psalm of penitence. In it he pleads for restoration while acknowledging the guilt he rightly carries and accepts the punishment he rightly deserves. His petition for forgiveness is not just to assuage his conscience; David states that, upon receiving restoration, he will teach others how great God is to forgive.
Psalm 52 gives David's understanding of God's protection. In contrast with those who wither without the safe-guarding hand of the Almighty, David can flourish - even in perilous times. This is attributed solely to the work of the Lord.
Psalm 53 lays out the natural state of man. Left to himself, man would not seek after God; nor is he capable of finding and comprehending Him. God must work in the lives of those who desire to seek after Him - creating the desire, opening the understanding and granting them the realization of what they seek.
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