Psalms 40 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Psalms 40

The Book of Psalms is a collection of sacred songs and prayers attributed to King David, the second king of ancient Israel. David reflects on his personal experiences with God’s faithfulness and deliverance in this particular psalm. David expresses his gratitude to the Lord in Psalm 40 for hearing his cries and lifting him out of a desperate situation. He acknowledges God’s steadfast love and the blessings that come from trusting in the divine plan. This psalm foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, who will ultimately fulfill God’s promise of salvation for all people.

Throughout the passage, David makes references to other important biblical figures and events, such as the prophet Samuel and the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. These allusions serve to situate David’s personal testimony within the broader context of God’s redemptive work in the world. Believers today continue to resonate with David’s words as we delve into this psalm, reminding us of the power of faith and the unwavering love of our Heavenly Father.

Psalms 40:1-3

Psalms 40:1-3 reads, “I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord. The psalmist expresses gratitude and praise for the deliverance and salvation he has received from the Lord in these verses. The psalmist begins by acknowledging his patience in waiting for the Lord’s help. This conveys the important message of trust and faith in God’s timing and plan. It reminds us that even in times of trials and tribulations, we should patiently wait for the Lord’s intervention, knowing that He hears our cries.

The imagery of being lifted out of the pit of despair, mud, and mire paints a vivid picture of the psalmist’s dire situation and God’s intervention to rescue him. This visual representation serves as a powerful metaphor for God’s ability to lift us out of our darkest moments and set us on a path of righteousness and strength. It reaffirms the biblical theme of God’s deliverance and His mercy towards His people. God provides stability and guidance to His followers, speaking to the idea of being set on solid ground and steadied as we walk. It reflects the notion of God being our solid foundation, our rock in times of trouble. This concept echoes throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of leaning on God for support and direction in our lives.

The verse concludes with the psalmist receiving a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to God. This signifies a transformation in the psalmist’s heart and mindset, moving from despair to gratitude and worship. It highlights the transformative power of God’s grace and the profound impact it can have on our lives. The psalmist’s declaration that many will see what God has done and be amazed underscores the witnessing of God’s miraculous works as a means to draw others to put their trust in Him. This aligns with the biblical principle of being a light to the world and sharing the goodness of God with others. These verses from Psalms 40 serve as a beautiful testament to the faithfulness and deliverance of God. They remind us of the importance of patience, trust, and gratitude in our relationship with Him, as well as the transformative power of His salvation in our lives. The psalmist’s journey from despair to praise encapsulates the overarching theme of redemption and hope that resonates throughout the Bible.

Psalms 40:4-5

We can analyze several key sections in Psalms 40:4-5 to grasp the deeper meaning of these verses. Let’s break down these sections one by one:

1. “Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust, who does not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after a lie. The psalmist emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord in this verse. Those who place their trust in God and not in worldly things or deceitful pursuits are considered blessed. This highlights a central theme in the Bible – the concept of trust and reliance on God. Throughout the scriptures, we see examples of individuals who placed their trust in the Lord and were rewarded for their faithfulness. One such example is the story of Abraham, who trusted in God’s promise of a son despite his old age and was ultimately blessed with Isaac (Genesis 21). This verse serves as a reminder for us to place our trust in God alone and not in the fleeting things of this world.

2. “Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders which You have done, and Your thoughts toward us; there is none to compare with You. If I would declare and speak of them, they would be too numerous to count.”

Here, the psalmist reflects on the wonders and thoughts of God toward His people. This verse underscores the magnitude of God’s deeds and the depth of His care for His creation. Throughout the Bible, we see numerous instances of God’s wonders and miraculous works, from the parting of the Red Sea for the Israelites (Exodus 14) to the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Matthew 28). The sheer magnitude of God’s deeds and His unfathomable thoughts towards us serve as a testament to His infinite love and power. This verse encourages us to reflect on God’s works in our own lives and to marvel at His greatness. Psalms 40:4-5 conveys timeless messages of trust in the Lord and awe at His wondrous works. It reminds us of the importance of placing our trust in God and not in worldly pursuits, as well as reflecting on the countless wonders that God has done for His people. Through these verses, we are encouraged to deepen our trust in God and to meditate on His unfailing love and power in our lives.

Psalms 40:6-8

Sure, let’s dive into Psalms 40:6-8 which reads, “Sacrifice and offering you did not desire — but my ears you have opened — burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. Then I said, ‘Here I am, I have come — it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart. The psalmist in this passage is expressing a deep understanding of God’s desires beyond mere ritual offerings. The mention of sacrifice and offering being undesired by God is significant as it highlights the importance of sincerity and obedience over empty gestures. It emphasizes that God desires a true relationship with His people, one based on genuine obedience and a heart that is open and responsive to Him.

When the psalmist speaks of “my ears you have opened,” it signifies a willingness to listen and be receptive to God’s guidance and instructions. This openness and attentiveness to God’s voice contrasts with the superficial acts of sacrifices and offerings that were common in rituals during that time. This theme of attentive listening and obedience is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in Isaiah 50:4-5 where it speaks of the servant of the Lord being given an ear to listen and being obedient.

The psalmist then recognizes the prophecy written about him in the scroll. This reference to a scroll could symbolize divine revelation or the predetermined plan of God for the psalmist’s life. This verse could also be seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, as many elements in Psalms are messianic and find fulfillment in Christ. Jesus, as the ultimate fulfillment of divine prophecy, perfectly embodied God’s will and had the law of God written within His heart, as mentioned in this passage.

The psalmist’s declaration of desiring to do God’s will and having God’s law within his heart reflects a profound commitment to obedience and faithfulness. This sentiment resonates with the teachings of Jesus, especially his words in Matthew 7:21 where he stresses the importance of doing the will of the Father. It underscores the idea that true worship is not just in external rituals but in a heart surrendered to God and obedient to His commands. Psalms 40:6-8 provides timeless lessons on the significance of genuine obedience, listening to God’s voice, fulfilling prophecies, and having the law of God written in one’s heart. It encourages us to move beyond mere religious rituals and instead focus on a deep, personal relationship with God based on obedience and faithfulness.

Psalms 40:9-10

The passage in Psalms 40:9-10 can be broken down into two important sections. First, “I proclaim glad tidings of righteousness in the great congregation; Behold, I will not restrain my lips, O Lord, You know.” This verse highlights the speaker’s commitment to spreading the message of righteousness in a public setting, likely in a gathering of believers. The proclamation of glad tidings of righteousness indicates an eagerness to share good news and promote moral uprightness among the community. The speaker’s vow to not restrain their lips emphasizes their dedication to vocalizing these righteous teachings openly, trusting in the Lord’s knowledge and guidance.

The second part of the passage reads, “I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart; I have declared Your faithfulness and Your salvation; I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth from the great congregation.” This segment further emphasizes the speaker’s fervent desire to proclaim and declare God’s righteousness, faithfulness, salvation, lovingkindness, and truth to the wider assembly. The speaker exemplifies a transparent and honest faith by openly sharing these aspects of God’s character and promises, choosing not to conceal or keep hidden the divine attributes they have experienced.

This passage from Psalms 40 underscores the importance of bold and unreserved declaration of God’s righteousness, faithfulness, and salvation. The speaker’s commitment to sharing these aspects of God’s nature with the congregation reflects a deep sense of gratitude and reverence for God’s character and deeds. The speaker sets an example for believers to uphold righteousness and truth in their own lives and communities by openly proclaiming these attributes.

Throughout the Bible, the theme of proclaiming God’s righteousness and faithfulness is recurrent. “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations” is written in Psalm 89:1.” This verse echoes the sentiment expressed in Psalms 40:9-10, emphasizing the importance of vocalizing and declaring God’s faithfulness to future generations. The act of openly declaring God’s righteousness and faithfulness serves to inspire others and solidify one’s own faith in God’s unfailing character.

Psalms 40:11-12

The psalmist in Psalms 40:11-12 cries out to God, saying, “Lord, do not withhold your mercy from me; may your love and faithfulness always protect me.” For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart fails within me.” This passage captures the deep sense of desperation and remorse felt by the psalmist as they acknowledge their sins and the overwhelming troubles that surround them.

The plea for God’s mercy and protection reflects a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith – the reliance on God’s mercy and love in times of need. The psalmist’s acknowledgement of their sins and the troubles they face serves as a reminder of the human condition – prone to sin and vulnerable to the trials and tribulations of life. This vulnerability and humility before God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of seeking God’s forgiveness and guidance.

The imagery of troubles without number and sins overtaking the psalmist paints a picture of utter helplessness and despair. Despite the overwhelming nature of their situation, the psalmist turns to God, recognizing that only God’s love and faithfulness can provide the protection and solace needed in such dire circumstances. This reliance on God in times of trouble echoes the sentiments expressed in other Psalms, such as Psalm 121:1-2, which declares, “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

The psalmist’s admission of sin and the impact it has had on them is a powerful reminder of the consequences of straying from God’s path. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of individuals who faced the consequences of their sins, yet found redemption through repentance and faith. The story of King David serves as a poignant example, as he faced the repercussions of his sins with Bathsheba and Uriah, yet found forgiveness and restoration through his heartfelt repentance (2 Samuel 12). Psalms 40:11-12 captures the universal themes of sin, forgiveness, and reliance on God’s mercy in the face of overwhelming troubles. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of humility, repentance, and faith in our relationship with God, highlighting the enduring message of hope and redemption found throughout the Bible.

Psalms 40:13-15

The Psalmist in Psalms 40:13-15 cries out to God in prayer, acknowledging their own need for divine intervention and guidance. Let’s break down this passage to explore its deeper meaning.

“Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me; O Lord, make haste to help me!” – The Psalmist begins by humbly asking for the Lord’s deliverance and immediate help. This reflects the urgent and heartfelt plea of someone in distress. We see here a recognition of the Psalmist’s dependency on God’s timing and power for salvation. This verse also highlights the importance of trusting in God’s timing and turning to Him in times of trouble. The urgency expressed by the Psalmist reminds readers of the immediacy of God’s response to those who call out to Him.

“Let them be ashamed and brought to mutual confusion who seek to destroy my life; let them be driven backward and brought to dishonor who wish me evil.” – Here, the Psalmist does not hesitate to ask for justice against those who seek harm. The Psalmist places their trust in God to protect them from enemies and bring about justice. This plea for protection and vindication speaks to the common human experience of facing adversaries and the desire for God to intervene on behalf of the righteous. This also reflects the broader biblical theme of God’s protection over His people and His role as a defender against enemies. The Psalmist’s prayer for divine intervention serves as a reminder for readers to seek God’s justice and protection in times of trouble in the face of threats.

“Let them be confounded because of their shame, who say to me, ‘Aha, aha!’” – The Psalmist concludes this passage by expressing a desire for the shame and embarrassment of their enemies. This demonstrates the Psalmist’s trust in God’s righteousness and faithfulness to ultimately triumph over evil. The mention of enemies taunting with “Aha, aha!” indicates a mocking and derisive tone, highlighting the cruelty and arrogance of the adversaries. This passage reiterates the biblical principle of God’s judgment on the wicked and the eventual downfall of those who oppose the righteous. It underscores the belief that God is just and will hold all accountable for their actions. Psalms 40:13-15 captures the essence of seeking God’s deliverance, protection, and justice in the face of adversity. The Psalmist’s prayer serves as a model for believers to approach God with humility, trust, and an unwavering faith in His power to overcome challenges. This passage reinforces the timeless message of relying on God in times of need and trusting in His sovereignty over all circumstances. This passage adds to the collection of prayers and praises that acknowledge God’s role as a protector, deliverer, and ultimate source of hope for His people in the broader context of the Psalms.

Psalms 40:16-17

The verses in Psalms 40:16-17 read: “But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who long for your saving help always say, ‘The Lord is great!’ But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay. The first section emphasizes the importance of seeking the Lord and finding joy and gladness in Him. Those who earnestly seek God and long for His salvation will not be disappointed, and they will proclaim His greatness. This serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God and the blessings that come from seeking Him wholeheartedly. The act of seeking God is a recurring theme in the Bible, with verses like Matthew 6:33 stating, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This shows that seeking God first leads to blessings and a deeper relationship with Him.

Furthermore, in the latter part of the passage, the psalmist acknowledges his own state of being “poor and needy.” Despite his own circumstances, he puts his trust in the Lord, recognizing that God is his help, deliverer, and sustainer. This demonstrates a sense of humility and dependence on God’s provision. The psalmist’s plea for God to think of him and not delay in helping him reflects a deep sense of reliance on God’s timing and intervention in his life. This echoes the sentiment expressed in Philippians 4:19, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” It reinforces the belief that God is attentive to the cries of His people and is faithful to help them in their times of need. These verses from Psalms 40 serve as a reminder of the importance of seeking God earnestly, finding joy in His presence, and trusting in His provision and deliverance. The psalmist’s humility and reliance on God set an example for believers to follow in times of trouble and uncertainty. The timeless message conveyed in these verses is that God is faithful to those who seek Him, and He is a present help in times of need.

After Psalms 40

The psalmist had cried out to the Lord, and the Lord had heard his plea. He had lifted the psalmist out of the miry pit and set his feet upon a rock, establishing his steps. The psalmist had then proclaimed the Lord’s wondrous deeds, declaring that many would see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.

But the psalmist’s troubles were not over. The psalmist continued to face adversity and sought the Lord’s protection and deliverance once more, as we shall see in the next chapter. The path of the righteous is not always easy, but the Lord is faithful to those who call upon Him.