Psalms 6
Psalm 6 is a lament in which David’s deep sorrow from suffering and illness, or from sin, along with his plea to God, and his trust in God’s help, are woven together. This chapter both expresses a personal, heartfelt anguish honestly and includes a confession of faith that places hope in God.
1verseFor the Chief Musician; on stringed instruments, upon the eight-stringed lyre. A Psalm by David. LORD, don’t rebuke me in your anger, neither discipline me in your wrath.
2verseHave mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint. LORD, heal me, for my bones are troubled.
3verseMy soul is also in great anguish. But you, LORD—how long?
4verseReturn, LORD. Deliver my soul, and save me for your loving kindness’ sake.
5verseFor in death there is no memory of you. In Sheol, who shall give you thanks?
6verseI am weary with my groaning. Every night I flood my bed. I drench my couch with my tears.
7verseMy eye wastes away because of grief. It grows old because of all my adversaries.
8verseDepart from me, all you workers of iniquity, for the LORD has heard the voice of my weeping.
9verseThe LORD has heard my supplication. The LORD accepts my prayer.
10verseMay all my enemies be ashamed and dismayed. They shall turn back, they shall be disgraced suddenly.
Structure and Flow
| Division | Summary of the Content |
|---|---|
| Verses 1-3 | A request to avoid God’s discipline and wrath, and a confession of one’s own weakness |
| Verses 4-5 | Asking God for mercy and salvation |
| Verses 6-7 | An outpouring of one’s strained emotions, spending the night in tears amid suffering |
| Verses 8-10 | Turning from lament, a confession of faith that trusts that God has heard the prayer and hopes in Him |
Key Themes and Meaning
- Human weakness: The psalmist openly confesses his weakness, despair, sinful nature, and his need for healing.
- God’s compassion: The psalmist earnestly asks for God’s mercy and forgiveness.
- Hope of restoration: Even in suffering, he is certain that God has heard his prayer, and ultimately he sings of the hope of restoration.
Points for Reflection
- Even in moments of anguish and sadness, can I honestly bring my heart to God?
- Where does hope for restoration come from?
- How can I regain the belief that God has heard my prayers?
Applying It to Myself
- When I feel hardship or weakness, I will also, like the psalm writer, try to have the courage to honestly confess every situation to God and to rely on Him.
- I will trust that God is listening to my prayers, and I will trust the process as my requests are fulfilled.
