This psalm starts with a sad expression of despair. According to my NIV Bible, “depths” means as if caught up in rising flood waters. In verse 2, “Let your ears be attentive”, certainly implies a degree of urgency.
The 3rd and 4th verses are encouraging for me. It reinforces that we are not alone and that we all sin. As humans we are flawed at birth and our weaknesses cause us to sin. It reminds us that none of us could stand from the weight of our sins but not for GOD’s forgiveness. We therefore can trust in GOD’s forgiveness.
Verses 5 and 6 state trust and patience. The night watchman reference is great. Night limits your vision. The watchman is alone and can’t see the evil that he knows is around him. He waits for the light of dawn, when evil shrinks back into the night, when he can see, not be alone, and out of danger. The night represents our sin and the light of the morning, the coming of forgiveness. I think this foretells the coming of the light, the Christ. Christ’s sacrifice and GOD’s ultimate act of forgiveness.
Verses 7 and 8 reminds us that GOD has his own timetable but not to worry because GOD’s forgiveness is never in doubt. His love is, “unfailing”. It finishes by prophesizing that GOD will redeem Israel from their sins. A prophesy that will be fulfilled through Christ.
This psalm sure started on a low note but just kept building to a strong positive ending. A verse in one of the hymns, sung in Church on Sunday, was, “we gain strength while we wait upon the Lord”. While singing it I thought of this psalm.
PRAISE THE LORD!
by Peter Steffen
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