Psalms 41

Psalms 41:1-13

“ Lord, Heal My Soul” Psalms 41:1-13 This psalm was probably composed, with the adjacent ones, during the four years in which Absalom’ s conspiracy was being hatched. Perhaps the anxiety thus caused induced some serious illness, over which David’ s enemies exulted with unseemly glee. His sensitive nature was evidently greatly pained. But who does not realize the applicability of the psalm to the betrayal of our Lord? Psalms 41:9 is quoted in John 13:18. In the day of trouble, when enemies oppose, Psalms 41:5-8, and friends prove false, Psalms 41:9, God draws near. Look after God’ s poor and He will care for you in the evil day. The blessings that you have endeavored to communicate will return to your own comfort in the hour of tribulation. God will make (or change) your bed in sickness, Psalms 41:3; will heal your soul, Psalms 41:4; and will set you before His face forever, Psalms 41:12. What a sweet conception of God as nurse in the room where feet must be shod with velvet and voices speak in gentlest tones! For Review Questions, see the e-Sword Book Comments.

Mine own Familiar Friend! It is supposed by some that this Psalm was composed during the four years in which Absalom’s conspiracy was being hatched. Perhaps the pain and sorrow of David’s heart brought on some serious illness, which his enemies used for their own purposes, and exulted over with unseemly glee. His sensitive nature is keenly hurt and pours out its complaint. And we cannot but feel the applicability of the Psalm to Him who was betrayed by his friend. Psalms 41:9 is fulfilled in John 13:18.

Psalms 41:1-3.A General Principle. When the writer’s enemies were in sorrow, he was very tender in his dealings with them (Psalms 35:13-14). Now he asks tenderness from God.

To make the bed is to turn it – As a gentle nurse comforts, so does God interpose alleviations for our pains.

Psalms 41:4 What a wholesome prayer! “Heal us, Emmanuel! We are here, Waiting to feel thy touch; Deep-wounded souls to Thee repair, And, Saviour, we are such.”–Cowper.

Psalms 41:5-9 David’s treatment by his foes. His disease drew no pity, but only impatience that he lingered so long. Their comforting words were full of deceit. They rejoiced in his approaching end. “The man of my friendship,” like a vicious mule, has kicked at the sick lion.

Psalms 41:10-12 The earlier verses savor more of the Old Testament spirit than of the New. But the conception of Psa 41:12 is very beautiful, as a courtier who stands in the chamber of the king (2 Chronicles 9:7; 1 Kings 17:1; Luke 1:19).

Psalms 41:13.This Doxology closes the first book of the Psalter. Each of the five books ends in a somewhat similar manner.