Psalms 38

Chapter Summary

In Psalms 38, David begins by asking God not to rebuke him in His anger, acknowledging his sinfulness and the suffering it has brought upon him (Psalms 38:1-3). He describes the severity of his physical and emotional pain, feeling as though his bones are infected and his loins are filled with burning (Psalms 38:3-8). David confesses that his sorrow is so overwhelming that he is unable to speak, and his friends and family have abandoned him (Psalms 38:9-12). Despite his isolation, David trusts in God, waiting for Him to act on his behalf (Psalms 38:13-16). He concludes by asking God to hear his prayer and not to forsake him, for he is poor and needy (Psalms 38:21-22). Throughout the chapter, David's focus on his suffering and his trust in God provide a powerful example of faith in the midst of adversity.

Context for the Chapter

Psalms 38 is part of the third book of the Psalms, which includes psalms 73-89. This chapter is one of the penitential psalms, along with Psalms 6, 32, 51, 102, 130, and 143. The psalm is attributed to David, who may have written it during a time of personal suffering or national crisis. The chapter's themes of sin, suffering, and trust in God are consistent with the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of repentance, faith, and redemption.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Psalms 38, we are reminded of the importance of acknowledging our sinfulness and seeking God's forgiveness and healing. We should trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of pain and adversity, and recognize that our suffering can draw us closer to Him. By applying these principles to our lives, we can deepen our faith and experience God's restoration and redemption.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Psalms 38 is about a man named David who is very sick and sad because of his sins. He asks God to forgive him and make him better. David trusts God and knows that He is his only hope. We can learn from David that it's essential to say sorry to God when we do wrong and to trust Him, even when things are tough. In Psalms 38:9, David says that God is his rock and refuge, which means that God is the one who keeps him safe and strong.

Voices from the Church

“The deepest depths of sorrow can be the nearest approaches to the throne of God, for in our darkest nights, He is often nearest to us.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The afflictions of the righteous are not punishments, but rather corrections, designed to lead them to repentance and a closer walk with God.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

1. Introduction: A Prayer for Mercy (Psalms 38:1-3) — David asks God not to rebuke him in His anger and to have mercy on him because of his sin.
2. Description of Suffering (Psalms 38:4-8) — David describes the severity of his physical and emotional pain, feeling as though his bones are infected and his loins are filled with burning.
3. Confession and Trust (Psalms 38:9-12) — David confesses his sinfulness and trusts in God, despite his overwhelming sorrow and isolation.
4. Waiting for God's Deliverance (Psalms 38:13-16) — David waits for God to act on his behalf, trusting in His sovereignty and goodness.
5. Conclusion: A Prayer for Help (Psalms 38:21-22) — David asks God to hear his prayer and not to forsake him, for he is poor and needy.

Core Doctrines

The Doctrine of Sin

Psalms 38 teaches that sin has consequences, including physical and emotional suffering, but that God is merciful and forgiving to those who repent.

The Doctrine of Suffering

The chapter illustrates that suffering can be a means of drawing closer to God and deepening one's faith, as seen in David's trust in God despite his adversity.

The Doctrine of Redemption

David's prayer for healing and restoration points to the ultimate redemption that comes through faith in Christ, who bore the sins of the world and offers eternal life to all who believe.

The Doctrine of Trust

The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of pain and adversity, as seen in David's unwavering trust in God.

Lessons from Psalms 38

1. The Importance of Acknowledging Sin — Psalms 38 teaches that acknowledging our sinfulness is crucial to our healing and restoration, as seen in David's confession of his sins.
2. The Power of Trust in Adversity — The chapter illustrates the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of pain and adversity, as seen in David's unwavering trust in God.
3. The Value of Suffering in Drawing Us Closer to God — David's suffering draws him closer to God, demonstrating the value of suffering in deepening our faith and trust in Him.
4. The Importance of Prayer in Times of Need — Psalms 38 emphasizes the importance of prayer in times of need or distress, as seen in David's prayer for mercy and healing.
5. The Ultimate Redemption Through Christ — The chapter points to the ultimate redemption that comes through faith in Christ, who bore the sins of the world and offers eternal life to all who believe.

Themes from Psalms 38

1. Sorrow and Repentance — The chapter explores the themes of sorrow and repentance, as David expresses his deep sorrow for his sins and seeks God's forgiveness and healing.
2. Trust and Faith — The importance of trust and faith in God is a dominant theme, as David's trust in God remains unwavering despite his suffering and adversity.
3. Suffering and Redemption — The chapter connects suffering with redemption, as David's suffering draws him closer to God and points to the ultimate redemption through Christ.
4. Sin and Forgiveness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of acknowledging sin and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in David's confession of his sins and his prayer for mercy and healing.
5. God's Sovereignty and Goodness — The chapter illustrates God's sovereignty and goodness, as David trusts in God's ability to deliver him from his suffering and restore him to health and wholeness.

Questions for Meditation

1. What are some ways that you can apply the principles of Psalms 38 to your life, particularly in times of suffering or adversity?
2. How does David's trust in God inspire you to deepen your faith and trust in Him?
3. What are some common misconceptions about suffering, and how does Psalms 38 address these misconceptions?
4. In what ways can you use Psalms 38 as a model for your own prayers, particularly in times of need or distress?
5. How does the chapter's emphasis on sin and repentance relate to your own spiritual journey and growth in faith?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on Psalms 38

	Sermon	Description
	God Doesn't Give Up on Children Who Fall by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher addresses the bondage and fear that many people experience due to past traumas and sins. He emphasizes that God's hand is a hand of love and deliveranc
	The Heaviness of Sin by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being convicted by the Holy Spirit and allowing God to peel away the layers of sin in one's life. He expresses his concern
	Psalms - Part 1 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of filling one's heart with the Word of God rather than simply avoiding evil. He references the story of a demon being cast ou
	(Revelation) the Church at Sardis by Willie Mullan	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering the glorious gospel that we have received and holding fast to it. He warns that there are many dedicated churc
	(Through the Bible) Psalms 31-40 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the trials and troubles that people face in life. He expresses his own personal grief and the reproach he has faced from enemies
	The Private War of a Saint by David Wilkerson	This sermon focuses on the private war of a saint, emphasizing the spiritual battles faced by believers in various aspects of life. It addresses the warfare against the church glob
	Sin Is Heavy by Tim Conway	This sermon emphasizes the weight of sin, highlighting how each sin adds to the burden and leads to a rotten foundation beneath us. It warns against neglecting God, hardness of hea
	Audio Sermon: No Tears by R. Edward Miller	This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing God to break through our emotional barriers, encouraging the expression of genuine emotions before God. It highlights the signific
	Deliberate Holiness by Tim Conway	This sermon focuses on Psalms 119:57 where David declares, 'The Lord is my portion; I promise to keep your words.' The speaker emphasizes the importance of deliberate holiness, bei
	The Second Coming 04 God's Program for Future by Stan Ford	In this sermon, the preacher urges the audience to accept God's salvation and let go of their burden of sin. He emphasizes the urgency of accepting salvation and questions if there

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 38

In his commentary on Psalms 38, Matthew Henry notes that David's suffering is a result of his sin, but also an opportunity for him to draw closer to God. Henry emphasizes the importance of acknowledging sin and seeking God's forgiveness, as seen in David's confession and prayer for mercy. He also highlights the theme of trust, noting that David's trust in God remains unwavering despite his adversity. Henry concludes that the chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of pain and adversity, and to seek His mercy and forgiveness in times of need. As Henry notes, 'The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit' (Psalms 34:18). Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?