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Psalms 40:1
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Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
David, who, though not without some hesitation, we regard as the author, now finds himself in a situation in which, on the one hand, he has just been rescued from danger, and, on the other, is still exposed to peril. Under such circumstances praise rightly occupies the first place, as in general, according to Psa 50:23, gratitude is the way to salvation. His hope, although תּוחלת ממשּׁכה (Pro 13:12), has not deceived him; he is rescued, and can now again sing a new song of thanksgiving, an example for others, strengthening their trust. קוּה קוּיתי, I waited with constancy and perseverance. יהוה is the accusative as in Psa 25:5; Psa 130:5, and not the vocative as in Psa 39:8. אזנו is to be supplied in thought to ויּט, although after the analogy of Psa 17:6; Psa 31:3, one might have looked for the Hiph. wayaT instead of the Kal. בור שׁאון does not mean a pit of roaring (of water), since שׁאון standing alone (see, on the other hand, Psa 65:8, Isa 17:12.) has not this meaning; and, moreover, "rushing, roaring" (Hengstenberg), tumultuous waters of a pit or a cistern does not furnish any idea that is true to nature; neither does it mean a pit of falling in, since שׁאה does not exhibit the signification deorsum labi; but the meaning is: a pit of devastation, of destruction, of ruin (Jer 25:31; Jer 46:17), vid., supra on Psa 35:8. Another figure is "mire of the marsh" (יון found only here and in Psa 69:3), i.e., water, in the miry bottom of which one can find no firm footing - a combination like מטר־גּשׁם, Zac 10:1, אדמת־עפר, Dan 12:2, explained in the Mishna, Mikvaoth ix. 2, by טיט הבורות (mire of the cisterns). Taking them out of this, Jahve placed his feet upon a rock, established his footsteps, i.e., removed him from the danger which surrounded him, and gave him firm ground under his feet. The high rock and the firm footsteps are the opposites of the deep pit and the yielding miry bottom. This deliverance afforded him new matter for thanksgiving (cf. Psa 33:3), and became in his mouth "praise to our God;" for the deliverance of the chosen king is an act of the God of Israel on behalf of His chosen people. The futures in Psa 40:4 (with an alliteration similar to Psa 52:8) indicate, by their being thus cumulative, that they are intended of the present and of that which still continues in the future.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I waited patiently for the Lord,.... Or "waiting I waited" (i); which denotes continuance, constancy, and patience; and which Christ exercised in the garden, when he submitted himself entirely to the will of God; and on the cross, when he continued in sure hope and firm expectation of his help and assistance, though he was for a while forsaken by him; see Isa 50:7; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry; both in the garden, by delivering him from fear of death; and on the cross, by upholding, helping, and assisting him, by carrying him through his sufferings and death, and raising him from the dead; see Isa 49:8. (i) "expectando expectavi", Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus Musculus, Rivetus, Gejerus, Michaelis; so Ainsworth.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses we have, I. The great distress and trouble that the psalmist had been in. He had been plunged into a horrible pit and into miry clay (Psa 40:2), out of which he could not work himself, and in which he found himself sinking yet further. He says nothing here either of the sickness of his body or the insults of his enemies, and therefore we have reason to think it was some inward disquiet and perplexity of spirit that was now his greatest grievance. Despondency of spirit under the sense of Gods withdrawings, and prevailing doubts and fears about the eternal state, are indeed a horrible pit and miry clay, and have been so to many a dear child of God. II. His humble attendance upon God and his believing expectations from him in those depths: I waited patiently for the Lord, Psa 40:1. Waiting, I waited. He expected relief from no other than from God; the same hand that tears must heal, that smites must bind up (Hos 6:1), or it will never be done. From God he expected relief, and he was big with expectation, not doubting but it would come in due time. There is power enough in God to help the weakest, and grace enough in God to help the unworthiest, of all his people that trust in him. But he waited patiently, which intimates that the relief did not come quickly; yet he doubted not but it would come, and resolved to continue believing, and hoping, and praying, till it did come. Those whose expectation is from God may wait with assurance, but must wait with patience. Now this is very applicable to Christ. His agony, both in the garden and on the cross, was the same continued, and it was a horrible pit and miry clay. Then was his soul troubled and exceedingly sorrowful; but then he prayed, Father, glorify thy name; Father, save me; then he kept hold of his relation to his Father, "My God, my God," and thus waited patiently for him. III. His comfortable experience of God's goodness to him in his distress, which he records for the honour of God and his own and others' encouragement. 1. God answered his prayers: He inclined unto me and heard my cry. Those that wait patiently for God, though they may wait long, do not wait in vain. Our Lord Jesus was heard in that he feared, Heb 5:7. Nay, he was sure that the Father heard him always. 2. He silenced his fears, and stilled the tumult of his spirits, and gave him a settled peace of conscience (Psa 40:2): "He brought me up out of that horrible pit of despondency and despair, scattered the clouds, and shone brightly upon my soul, with the assurances of his favour; and not only so, but set my feet upon a rock and established my goings." Those that have been under the prevalency of a religious melancholy, and by the grace of God have been relieved, may apply this very feelingly to themselves; they are brought up out of a horrible pit. (1.) The mercy is completed by the setting of their feet upon a rock, where they find firm footing, are as much elevated with the hopes of heaven as they were before cast down with the fears of hell. Christ is the rock on which a poor soul may stand fast, and on whose meditation alone between us and God we can build any solid hopes or satisfaction. (2.) It is continued in the establishment of their goings. Where God has given a stedfast hope he expects there should be a steady regular conversation; and, if that be the blessed fruit of it, we have reason to acknowledge, with abundance of thankfulness, the riches and power of his grace. 3. He filled him with joy, as well as peace, in believing: "He has put a new song in my mouth; he has given me cause to rejoice and a heart to rejoice." He was brought, as it were, into a new world, and that filled his mouth with a new song, even praise to our God; for to his praise and glory must all our songs be sung. Fresh mercies, especially such as we never before received, call for new songs. This is applicable to our Lord Jesus in his reception to paradise, his resurrection from the grave, and his exaltation to the joy and glory set before him; he was brought out of the horrible pit, set upon a rock, and had a new song put into his mouth. IV. The good improvement that should be made of this instance of God's goodness to David. 1. David's experience would be an encouragement to many to hope in God, and, for that end, he leaves it here upon record: Many shall see, and fear, and trust in the Lord. They shall fear the Lord and his justice, which brought David, and the Son of David, into that horrible pit, and shall say, If this be done to the green tree, what shall be done to the dry? They shall fear the Lord and his goodness, in filling the mouth of David, and the Son of David, with new songs of joy and praise. There is a holy reverent fear of God, which is not only consistent with, but the foundation of, our hope in him. They shall not fear him and shun him, but fear him and trust in him in their greatest straits, not doubting but to find him as able and ready to help as David did in his distress. God's dealings with our Lord Jesus are our great encouragement to trust in God; when it pleased the Lord to bruise him, and put him to grief for our sins, he demanded our debt from him; and when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand, he made it to appear that he had accepted the payment he made and was satisfied with it; and what greater encouragement can we have to fear and worship God and to trust in him?. See Rom 4:25; Rom 5:1, Rom 5:2. The psalmist invites others to make God their hope, as he did, by pronouncing those happy that do so (Psa 40:4): "Blessed is the man that makes the Lord his trust, and him only (that has great and good thoughts of him, and is entirely devoted to him), and respects not the proud, does not do as those do that trust in themselves, nor depends upon those who proudly encourage others to trust in them; for both the one and the other turn aside to lies, as indeed all those do that turn aside from God." This is applicable, particularly, to our faith in Christ. Blessed are those that trust in him, and in his righteousness alone, and respect not the proud Pharisees, that set up their own righteousness in competition with that, that will not be governed by their dictates, nor turn aside to lies, with the unbelieving Jews, who submit not to the righteousness of God, Rom 10:3. Blessed are those that escape this temptation. 2. The joyful sense he had of this mercy led him to observe, with thankfulness, the many other favours he had received from God, Psa 40:5. When God puts new songs into our mouth we must not forget our former songs, but repeat them: "Many, O Lord my God! are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, both for me and others; this is but one of many." Many are the benefits with which we are daily loaded both by the providence and by the grace of God. (1.) They are his works, not only the gifts of his bounty, but the operations of his power. He works for us, he works in us, and thus he favours us with matter, not only for thanks, but for praise. (2.) They are his wonderful works, the contrivance of them admirable, his condescension to us in bestowing them upon us admirable; eternity itself will be short enough to be spent in the admiration of them. (3.) All his wonderful works are the product of his thoughts to us-ward. He does all according to the counsel of his own will (Eph 1:11), the purposes of his grace which he purposed in himself, Eph 3:11. They are the projects of infinite wisdom, the designs of everlasting love (Co1 2:7, Jer 31:3), thoughts of good and not of evil, Jer 29:11. His gifts and callings will therefore be without repentance, because they are not sudden resolves, but the result of his thoughts, his many thoughts, to us-ward. (4.) They are innumerable; they cannot be methodized or reckoned up in order. There is an order in all God's works, but there are so many that present themselves to our view at once that we know not where to begin nor which to name next; the order of them, and their natural references and dependencies, and how the links of the golden chain are joined, are a mystery to us, and what we shall not be able to account for till the veil be rent and the mystery of God finished. Nor can they be counted, not the very heads of them. When we have said the most we can of the wonders of divine love to us we must conclude with an et caetera - and such like, and adore the depth, despairing to find the bottom.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Ps 40 This psalm includes a thanksgiving song (40:1-10) followed by a lament (40:11-17). The thanksgiving song includes the reason for the thanksgiving (40:1-5), an affirmation of commitment (40:6-8), and a public testimony of God’s character (40:7-10). The lament concerns the psalmist’s troubles because of his sins (40:11-12) and is followed by two prayers for vindication (40:13-15, 17). 40:1-5 The psalmist thanks the Lord for his rescue and testifies that God can be trusted.
Psalms 40:1
I Waited Patiently for the LORD
1I waited patiently for the LORD; He inclined to me and heard my cry. 2He lifted me up from the pit of despair, out of the miry clay; He set my feet upon a rock, and made my footsteps firm.
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- Sermons
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The Snare of the Satisfied
By Carter Conlon3.0K51:58Laziness2SA 5:10PSA 35:27PSA 40:1PSA 40:8PSA 40:17MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking God to give them His Word and for it to burn within them. They ask God to keep them from laziness and the snares of victory. The speaker then encourages the listeners to remember that even if they feel poor and needy, God has new and good things for them. They emphasize that as they seek truth and walk with God, they will experience significant transformation and victories in their lives. The sermon also references the story of David in the Bible, highlighting his journey of waiting on God, being delivered from a pit, and experiencing God's miraculous works.
I Waited Patiently
By Hans R. Waldvogel2.6K31:42WaitingPSA 40:1ISA 40:31MAT 5:3EPH 6:122TI 2:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of waiting upon the Lord and serving Him with a heart like David's. He highlights the need for grace in ruling over people and serving God acceptably. The speaker encourages the audience to accept the call to serve the living and true God and to eagerly await the coming of Jesus Christ. He shares a personal experience of waiting upon the Lord during a time of great trials and how it resulted in God's faithfulness and reward. The sermon concludes with the belief that God is leading us into a new era and desires to lift us into sonship with Himself.
Delight Ourselves in the Lord
By Chuck Smith1.2K25:04TrustPSA 40:1PSA 40:5ISA 1:11ISA 1:13MAT 28:6MRK 16:6LUK 24:6In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith encourages listeners to delight themselves in the Lord and put their trust in Him. He emphasizes the power of God to transform lives and bring people to Christ. Pastor Chuck highlights the wonderful works of God and the thoughts He has towards us, which cannot be fully comprehended. He concludes with a prayer for God's blessings, guidance, and strength for the listeners.
From a Cry to a Song
By Carter Conlon89240:10SongPSA 40:1In this sermon, the preacher reflects on a news interview with a police officer who witnessed the tragic massacre of children in Newtown, Connecticut. The officer describes the profound impact of the horrific scene on his mental and emotional well-being, leading him to feel a sense of panic and fear in everyday situations. The preacher emphasizes that this officer's experience highlights the existence of God, as his transformation from a state of distress to being "sitting and clothed and in his right mind" instilled fear in those who witnessed it. The sermon also emphasizes the power of Jesus to bring healing and deliverance, urging listeners to turn to Him for freedom and restoration.
In Christ, Even Sorrow Has a Song
By Carter Conlon78938:39PSA 40:1This sermon from Psalms 40 is centered on the theme 'In Christ even sorrow has a song.' It emphasizes the power of God's Word to bring hope, vision, and strength, and the transformative impact of having a new song of praise in times of despair. The message highlights the importance of shifting our focus from circumstances to God's promises, trusting in His deliverance, and allowing Him to establish our steps on a solid foundation.
A Gospel Tract Ministry
By E.A. Johnston70931:30GospelPSA 37:4PSA 40:1PRO 29:1JHN 3:16ROM 3:23ROM 5:8REV 20:11The video is about the importance of handing out gospel tracks as a way to share the message of Christ with others. The speaker emphasizes the need to catch the reader's attention right from the beginning and relates to their personal experiences of trouble and danger in life. The speaker shares a personal story of a preacher who handed out a gospel track to a man in a bog, and how it impacted him. The video encourages viewers to start their own track ministry and emphasizes the value of good Christian literature in spreading the Gospel.
No Small Stir
By Bill McLeod67935:30Christian LifePSA 40:1PSA 90:17MAT 28:19MRK 16:15JHN 12:42ACT 1:8ACT 17:6In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of prayer and having faith in God's ability to exceed our expectations. He then reads from Psalm 40:1, which talks about waiting patiently for the Lord and being delivered from difficult situations. The speaker also mentions the phrase "no small stir" found in the book of Acts, which refers to the impact that Christians can have in the world. He encourages believers to boldly share their testimonies and make a stir, so that others may see and trust in the Lord. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's guidance and involvement in the spiritual stirrings happening around the world.
The Potter and the Clay
By Phillip Keller21433:16Christian LifePSA 40:1In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of visiting a potter in a bazaar. The potter is a skilled craftsman and the speaker expresses interest in learning about his process. As the potter works on the wheel, the speaker notices that the potter's face is filled with hope and anticipation for the beautiful creation he is making. However, at one point, the potter's work is marred due to resistance, and he has to start over. This experience leads the speaker to reflect on the verse from Jeremiah about the potter and the clay, realizing that resistance can hinder the work of God in our lives.
(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 14 Psalm 40
By Keith Simons7924:35KJV BibleDivine RescueTrust in GodPSA 40:1Keith Simons teaches on Psalm 40, emphasizing its themes of rescue and salvation. He explains how David, in a desperate situation, patiently waited for God's help and ultimately experienced divine deliverance. The psalm illustrates the importance of trusting in God, obeying His commands, and proclaiming His goodness to others. Simons highlights that true obedience comes from a heart aligned with God's will, and he encourages believers to rely on God's mercy in times of trouble. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's faithfulness and the joy that comes from trusting in Him.
Psalm 40
By Leonard Ravenhill531:10:05Christian LifeFaithPatience in AdversityPSA 40:1Leonard Ravenhill shares insights from Psalm 40, emphasizing the importance of waiting patiently for the Lord amidst a restless generation. He reflects on the transformative power of God, who lifts us from despair, establishes our paths, and fills our hearts with praise. Ravenhill highlights the necessity of maintaining faith and trust in God, even when faced with adversity and the challenges of life. He encourages believers to recognize their spiritual wealth in Christ and to rely on God's strength and loving kindness in times of trouble. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper relationship with God, urging the congregation to seek Him above all else.
The Necessity of Waiting on God
By Phil Beach Jr.511:16:20Waiting On GodLove for GodPSA 25:5PSA 37:7PSA 40:1PSA 62:1ISA 30:18LAM 3:25MIC 7:7HAB 2:3JHN 14:211CO 2:9Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of waiting on God, urging the congregation to cultivate a posture of stillness and silence in His presence. He highlights that true waiting is not about presenting our agendas to God but about allowing Him to speak and reveal Himself to us. Through various scriptures, he illustrates that waiting is an expression of love for God and a necessary discipline for spiritual growth. The sermon calls for a collective commitment to waiting on the Lord, encouraging families to engage in this practice together. Ultimately, Beach Jr. reassures that in waiting, we will experience God's grace and revelation in profound ways.
How to Be Filled With the Holy Spirit
By Eli Brayley0PSA 40:1PSA 66:18LUK 4:18LUK 11:9ACT 1:8ACT 2:39ROM 12:12TI 2:20HEB 11:6JAS 4:31JN 3:22Eli Brayley preaches on the importance of being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the simplicity of asking God for this blessing. He highlights that many are not filled because they do not ask, are filled with pride, or lack faith in God's promises. Brayley explains the conditions that hinder individuals from receiving the Holy Spirit, including unbelief, selfish intentions, an unsurrendered life, hidden sin, and giving up too soon, stressing the need for genuine faith, surrender, and perseverance in seeking God's power.
Legal and Gospel Experience
By Charles Finney0Faith and FreedomDeliverancePSA 40:1Charles Finney explores the transition from legal bondage to the freedom of the Gospel, using Psalm 40:1-3 to illustrate the journey of a soul trapped in despair and sin, likened to being in a 'horrible pit of miry clay.' He emphasizes the importance of waiting patiently on the Lord, which involves earnest prayer and a deep recognition of one's desperate need for divine intervention. Finney explains that true deliverance comes from God, who lifts the soul from despair and establishes it on a firm foundation, resulting in a transformed life filled with praise and a new song. The sermon serves as a reminder that many believers remain in a state of legal bondage, struggling under guilt, yet they can find hope and freedom through faith in Christ.
'Don't Flinch'
By Samuel Logan Brengle0PatienceFaithPSA 40:1ISA 28:16HEB 10:23Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith in his sermon 'Don't Flinch.' He recounts the story of a Captain who, despite spiritual darkness and ignorance, learned that true faith requires not flinching in the face of doubt. Brengle illustrates that many souls falter at the final test of faith, succumbing to doubt instead of waiting patiently for God's revelation. He encourages believers to remain steadfast and trust in God's timing, citing biblical examples of those who waited on the Lord and received His glory. Ultimately, he reassures that through patient faith, God will come to those who earnestly seek Him.
Finders, Keepers; Losers, Weepers!
By George H. Alquist Jr.0PSA 40:1MAT 9:9LUK 13:23LUK 19:5JHN 1:43JHN 4:4JHN 5:24George H. Alquist Jr. preaches on the story of Zacchaeus, emphasizing how Jesus always does the finding, as seen in His encounters with Zacchaeus, the woman at the well, Philip, Saul, Matthew, and David. He highlights that Jesus seeks every sinner, coming to seek and save the lost, and that we are all found by Jesus, not the other way around. Alquist stresses that Jesus is the Finder and the Keeper, ensuring that once He finds us, He keeps us by His power and blood. He warns that those without Christ are losers, missing out on eternal life and Heaven, and that eternal Hell will be filled with weeping losers.
Deep Water
By David Wilkerson0Divine RescueTrust in GodPSA 34:17PSA 40:1PSA 69:2David Wilkerson's sermon 'Deep Water' emphasizes the desperate plea for God's rescue in times of overwhelming trouble and sin. He reflects on the imagery of sinking in deep mire and the feeling of being flooded by life's challenges, urging believers to call out to God for deliverance and mercy. Wilkerson highlights the importance of acknowledging our weaknesses and the need for divine intervention, encouraging the faithful to trust in God's timely help and compassion.
The Life of William Cowper
By William Cowper0PSA 30:5PSA 34:18PSA 40:1PSA 42:11ISA 41:10MAT 11:28ROM 8:282CO 12:9PHP 4:61PE 5:7William Cowper, a poet of noble ancestry, faced early hardships and struggles, including the loss of his mother at a young age and a period of cruel treatment at school. Despite being apprenticed to a career in law that he did not enjoy, he found solace in literature and writing. Cowper's life was marked by periods of intense melancholy and despair, leading to a deep struggle with mental illness. Through the care of friends and his own faith journey, he found moments of peace and creativity, producing renowned works like 'The Task' and 'John Gilpin.' Despite his personal struggles, Cowper's poems, characterized by humor, pathos, and Christian sentiment, have left a lasting impact on English literature.
Waited Patiently (What Would Happen to You if You Did This, as the Bible Says?)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Waiting On GodPersonal Relationship with GodPSA 40:1Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the transformative power of waiting patiently on the Lord, as illustrated in Psalm 40. He reflects on how few truly follow God's counsel, likening it to baking a cake without a proper recipe. Waldvogel encourages believers to seek God personally and to dedicate time to prayer and reflection, asserting that true blessings come from a direct relationship with God. He warns against the distractions of the world and the flesh, urging listeners to embrace the call to a deeper spiritual life. Ultimately, he assures that waiting on the Lord leads to divine intervention and a solid foundation in faith.
Preparation for Praise
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 40:1ROM 8:17PHP 3:101TI 1:121PE 4:12Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of enduring trials and suffering, drawing inspiration from the experiences of David in the Bible. He emphasizes that every sorrow and deliverance in our lives adds to the beautiful melody of praise we offer to God. By waiting on God and surrendering to His will, we can deepen our relationship with Him and be transformed to be more like Christ, increasing our capacity for empathy and understanding. Cowman encourages the congregation not to fear the trials that come their way, as these experiences are opportunities for spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God.
Watchmen Upon the Walls
By James Bourne0PSA 40:1PSA 106:4ISA 40:11MAL 3:2JHN 15:16ACT 4:111CO 3:11EPH 6:10TIT 3:51PE 2:6James Bourne preaches about the importance of faithful watchmen in guarding God's people and promoting their welfare through unceasing prayers and a faithful ministry. The prophet Isaiah emphasizes God's peculiar care over His afflicted people, assuring them of His delight in those who hope in His mercy and the everlasting name He bestows upon them. The chapter highlights the need for a tender union with Christ and preserving the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ, the chief cornerstone. The faithful watchmen are called to proclaim the happy truths of salvation to a poor and afflicted people, assuring them of God's everlasting love and care.
The Divine Shepherd Hears His Sheep
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 40:1ISA 30:19LUK 15:4LUK 15:8JHN 10:11Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the unwavering love and compassion of our Divine Shepherd, who tirelessly seeks after His lost sheep, even to the point of sacrificing His own life. Just as a shepherd listens for the cry of a stray sheep, our Shepherd listens for our cries and is always ready to answer and rescue us from our deepest pits of despair. Despite our fears and failures, when we lift up our helpless cries to Him, His tender love is always seeking us, ready to bring us back into His loving embrace.
In the Pits With a King
By John Piper0PSA 6:6PSA 30:2PSA 37:9PSA 40:1PSA 42:1PSA 56:8PSA 146:3PHP 1:28John Piper preaches on the pattern of life presented in Psalms 40:1-3, focusing on the experience of being in the pits, crying out to God, waiting patiently, being rescued by God, receiving a new song of praise, and influencing others to trust in the Lord. The sermon emphasizes the importance of humility, hope, and genuine cries to God in times of distress, highlighting the need to trust in the Lord rather than turning to worldly solutions. Through the example of King David, the sermon encourages believers to wait intently for God's deliverance, which brings a sense of security and prompts heartfelt gratitude and praise.
Ordering the Stops
By Charles E. Cowman0EXO 13:21PSA 37:23PSA 40:1ISA 40:31EPH 6:13Charles E. Cowman preaches on the challenging aspect of waiting on the Lord, emphasizing the need for patience and trust in God's timing. He highlights the purpose behind God's delays, encouraging believers to stay faithful in their current circumstances and not to break through God's hedges prematurely. Cowman stresses the importance of waiting for God's guidance in all things, as it leads to true strength and fulfillment in His appointed tasks, even when it requires standing still in quiet confidence and submission to His will.
I Cry Unto Thee, and Thou Dost
By F.B. Meyer0God's Response to SufferingTrusting in God's TimingJOB 30:20PSA 18:6PSA 34:18PSA 40:1ISA 65:24LAM 3:55MAT 15:27ROM 8:28HEB 4:151PE 5:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes that every cry from a suffering soul is heard by God, who is intimately aware of our pain and struggles. He compares God's responsiveness to a mother's sensitivity to her child's needs, assuring that even the lowest cries do not go unnoticed. Meyer reassures that God's answers may come in unexpected ways and at the right time, encouraging believers to remain hopeful and attentive to the ways God may be responding. He reminds us that sometimes the delay in answers is part of God's preparation for us to receive His gifts. Ultimately, we must trust that God is always listening and that our answers are on their way, even if we cannot see them yet.
Longing
By George Herbert0PSA 18:6PSA 34:17PSA 40:1PSA 69:33PSA 116:1ISA 30:19JAS 5:11George Herbert's sermon emphasizes the deep cries, groans, and sighs of a soul in desperate need of God's mercy and compassion, acknowledging the weariness, hoarseness, and giddiness that come from the burdens of life. The plea is for God to hear, to not be indifferent or deaf to the heartfelt cries of His children, and to consider their sorrows and griefs with a compassionate ear. Despite feeling abandoned and in bitter grief, the speaker clings to the hope that God, who made the ear, will indeed hear and respond to their pleas for help and healing.
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- John Gill
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- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
David, who, though not without some hesitation, we regard as the author, now finds himself in a situation in which, on the one hand, he has just been rescued from danger, and, on the other, is still exposed to peril. Under such circumstances praise rightly occupies the first place, as in general, according to Psa 50:23, gratitude is the way to salvation. His hope, although תּוחלת ממשּׁכה (Pro 13:12), has not deceived him; he is rescued, and can now again sing a new song of thanksgiving, an example for others, strengthening their trust. קוּה קוּיתי, I waited with constancy and perseverance. יהוה is the accusative as in Psa 25:5; Psa 130:5, and not the vocative as in Psa 39:8. אזנו is to be supplied in thought to ויּט, although after the analogy of Psa 17:6; Psa 31:3, one might have looked for the Hiph. wayaT instead of the Kal. בור שׁאון does not mean a pit of roaring (of water), since שׁאון standing alone (see, on the other hand, Psa 65:8, Isa 17:12.) has not this meaning; and, moreover, "rushing, roaring" (Hengstenberg), tumultuous waters of a pit or a cistern does not furnish any idea that is true to nature; neither does it mean a pit of falling in, since שׁאה does not exhibit the signification deorsum labi; but the meaning is: a pit of devastation, of destruction, of ruin (Jer 25:31; Jer 46:17), vid., supra on Psa 35:8. Another figure is "mire of the marsh" (יון found only here and in Psa 69:3), i.e., water, in the miry bottom of which one can find no firm footing - a combination like מטר־גּשׁם, Zac 10:1, אדמת־עפר, Dan 12:2, explained in the Mishna, Mikvaoth ix. 2, by טיט הבורות (mire of the cisterns). Taking them out of this, Jahve placed his feet upon a rock, established his footsteps, i.e., removed him from the danger which surrounded him, and gave him firm ground under his feet. The high rock and the firm footsteps are the opposites of the deep pit and the yielding miry bottom. This deliverance afforded him new matter for thanksgiving (cf. Psa 33:3), and became in his mouth "praise to our God;" for the deliverance of the chosen king is an act of the God of Israel on behalf of His chosen people. The futures in Psa 40:4 (with an alliteration similar to Psa 52:8) indicate, by their being thus cumulative, that they are intended of the present and of that which still continues in the future.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I waited patiently for the Lord,.... Or "waiting I waited" (i); which denotes continuance, constancy, and patience; and which Christ exercised in the garden, when he submitted himself entirely to the will of God; and on the cross, when he continued in sure hope and firm expectation of his help and assistance, though he was for a while forsaken by him; see Isa 50:7; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry; both in the garden, by delivering him from fear of death; and on the cross, by upholding, helping, and assisting him, by carrying him through his sufferings and death, and raising him from the dead; see Isa 49:8. (i) "expectando expectavi", Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus Musculus, Rivetus, Gejerus, Michaelis; so Ainsworth.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses we have, I. The great distress and trouble that the psalmist had been in. He had been plunged into a horrible pit and into miry clay (Psa 40:2), out of which he could not work himself, and in which he found himself sinking yet further. He says nothing here either of the sickness of his body or the insults of his enemies, and therefore we have reason to think it was some inward disquiet and perplexity of spirit that was now his greatest grievance. Despondency of spirit under the sense of Gods withdrawings, and prevailing doubts and fears about the eternal state, are indeed a horrible pit and miry clay, and have been so to many a dear child of God. II. His humble attendance upon God and his believing expectations from him in those depths: I waited patiently for the Lord, Psa 40:1. Waiting, I waited. He expected relief from no other than from God; the same hand that tears must heal, that smites must bind up (Hos 6:1), or it will never be done. From God he expected relief, and he was big with expectation, not doubting but it would come in due time. There is power enough in God to help the weakest, and grace enough in God to help the unworthiest, of all his people that trust in him. But he waited patiently, which intimates that the relief did not come quickly; yet he doubted not but it would come, and resolved to continue believing, and hoping, and praying, till it did come. Those whose expectation is from God may wait with assurance, but must wait with patience. Now this is very applicable to Christ. His agony, both in the garden and on the cross, was the same continued, and it was a horrible pit and miry clay. Then was his soul troubled and exceedingly sorrowful; but then he prayed, Father, glorify thy name; Father, save me; then he kept hold of his relation to his Father, "My God, my God," and thus waited patiently for him. III. His comfortable experience of God's goodness to him in his distress, which he records for the honour of God and his own and others' encouragement. 1. God answered his prayers: He inclined unto me and heard my cry. Those that wait patiently for God, though they may wait long, do not wait in vain. Our Lord Jesus was heard in that he feared, Heb 5:7. Nay, he was sure that the Father heard him always. 2. He silenced his fears, and stilled the tumult of his spirits, and gave him a settled peace of conscience (Psa 40:2): "He brought me up out of that horrible pit of despondency and despair, scattered the clouds, and shone brightly upon my soul, with the assurances of his favour; and not only so, but set my feet upon a rock and established my goings." Those that have been under the prevalency of a religious melancholy, and by the grace of God have been relieved, may apply this very feelingly to themselves; they are brought up out of a horrible pit. (1.) The mercy is completed by the setting of their feet upon a rock, where they find firm footing, are as much elevated with the hopes of heaven as they were before cast down with the fears of hell. Christ is the rock on which a poor soul may stand fast, and on whose meditation alone between us and God we can build any solid hopes or satisfaction. (2.) It is continued in the establishment of their goings. Where God has given a stedfast hope he expects there should be a steady regular conversation; and, if that be the blessed fruit of it, we have reason to acknowledge, with abundance of thankfulness, the riches and power of his grace. 3. He filled him with joy, as well as peace, in believing: "He has put a new song in my mouth; he has given me cause to rejoice and a heart to rejoice." He was brought, as it were, into a new world, and that filled his mouth with a new song, even praise to our God; for to his praise and glory must all our songs be sung. Fresh mercies, especially such as we never before received, call for new songs. This is applicable to our Lord Jesus in his reception to paradise, his resurrection from the grave, and his exaltation to the joy and glory set before him; he was brought out of the horrible pit, set upon a rock, and had a new song put into his mouth. IV. The good improvement that should be made of this instance of God's goodness to David. 1. David's experience would be an encouragement to many to hope in God, and, for that end, he leaves it here upon record: Many shall see, and fear, and trust in the Lord. They shall fear the Lord and his justice, which brought David, and the Son of David, into that horrible pit, and shall say, If this be done to the green tree, what shall be done to the dry? They shall fear the Lord and his goodness, in filling the mouth of David, and the Son of David, with new songs of joy and praise. There is a holy reverent fear of God, which is not only consistent with, but the foundation of, our hope in him. They shall not fear him and shun him, but fear him and trust in him in their greatest straits, not doubting but to find him as able and ready to help as David did in his distress. God's dealings with our Lord Jesus are our great encouragement to trust in God; when it pleased the Lord to bruise him, and put him to grief for our sins, he demanded our debt from him; and when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand, he made it to appear that he had accepted the payment he made and was satisfied with it; and what greater encouragement can we have to fear and worship God and to trust in him?. See Rom 4:25; Rom 5:1, Rom 5:2. The psalmist invites others to make God their hope, as he did, by pronouncing those happy that do so (Psa 40:4): "Blessed is the man that makes the Lord his trust, and him only (that has great and good thoughts of him, and is entirely devoted to him), and respects not the proud, does not do as those do that trust in themselves, nor depends upon those who proudly encourage others to trust in them; for both the one and the other turn aside to lies, as indeed all those do that turn aside from God." This is applicable, particularly, to our faith in Christ. Blessed are those that trust in him, and in his righteousness alone, and respect not the proud Pharisees, that set up their own righteousness in competition with that, that will not be governed by their dictates, nor turn aside to lies, with the unbelieving Jews, who submit not to the righteousness of God, Rom 10:3. Blessed are those that escape this temptation. 2. The joyful sense he had of this mercy led him to observe, with thankfulness, the many other favours he had received from God, Psa 40:5. When God puts new songs into our mouth we must not forget our former songs, but repeat them: "Many, O Lord my God! are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, both for me and others; this is but one of many." Many are the benefits with which we are daily loaded both by the providence and by the grace of God. (1.) They are his works, not only the gifts of his bounty, but the operations of his power. He works for us, he works in us, and thus he favours us with matter, not only for thanks, but for praise. (2.) They are his wonderful works, the contrivance of them admirable, his condescension to us in bestowing them upon us admirable; eternity itself will be short enough to be spent in the admiration of them. (3.) All his wonderful works are the product of his thoughts to us-ward. He does all according to the counsel of his own will (Eph 1:11), the purposes of his grace which he purposed in himself, Eph 3:11. They are the projects of infinite wisdom, the designs of everlasting love (Co1 2:7, Jer 31:3), thoughts of good and not of evil, Jer 29:11. His gifts and callings will therefore be without repentance, because they are not sudden resolves, but the result of his thoughts, his many thoughts, to us-ward. (4.) They are innumerable; they cannot be methodized or reckoned up in order. There is an order in all God's works, but there are so many that present themselves to our view at once that we know not where to begin nor which to name next; the order of them, and their natural references and dependencies, and how the links of the golden chain are joined, are a mystery to us, and what we shall not be able to account for till the veil be rent and the mystery of God finished. Nor can they be counted, not the very heads of them. When we have said the most we can of the wonders of divine love to us we must conclude with an et caetera - and such like, and adore the depth, despairing to find the bottom.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Ps 40 This psalm includes a thanksgiving song (40:1-10) followed by a lament (40:11-17). The thanksgiving song includes the reason for the thanksgiving (40:1-5), an affirmation of commitment (40:6-8), and a public testimony of God’s character (40:7-10). The lament concerns the psalmist’s troubles because of his sins (40:11-12) and is followed by two prayers for vindication (40:13-15, 17). 40:1-5 The psalmist thanks the Lord for his rescue and testifies that God can be trusted.