Bible verses for children
An honest sorry matters.
Psalm 51:17
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit. O God, you will not despise a broken and contrite heart.
Psalm 51:17 · World English Bible Classic (WEB)
In simple words
What does this verse mean?
Contrite means truly sorry about a wrong, with a willingness to turn away from it. A broken spirit here is the end of proud excuses, not a demand to hate yourself. God welcomes honest sorrow. A child’s value does not disappear when they have made a mistake.
A costly present cannot replace admitting that you hurt someone. A sincere apology names the wrong and begins to put it right, even when the first step is small.
Talk about it
What makes an apology sincere rather than just a way to avoid trouble?
A little more to explore
Bible context & readings +
Psalm 51 asks for forgiveness, cleansing and a renewed heart. In its discussion of sacrifice, verse 17 emphasises honesty before God rather than a display that hides wrongdoing. It does not praise being harmed by other people or having low self-worth.
Full readings at eBible.org · World English Bible Classic. Read with an adult.A simple prayer +
God, help us be sincerely sorry for wrong actions and willing to change. Amen.
A suggested prayer, written for this guide.
