Psalms 38

22 verses

TL;DR

Psalm 38 is a lament by David pleading for mercy while confessing his sins and acknowledging his physical and emotional suffering, yet ending with hopeful trust in God.

Summary

In Psalm 38, David opens with a plea to God not to punish him in anger, expressing that the arrows of sin have pierced his life. He describes his body as wounded, his heart as broken, and his sight as dimmed by the weight of his iniquities. The psalmist laments that friends and family have turned away, and enemies have laid snares against him, adding to his despair. Despite the distress, David admits his readiness to confess his sin and declares his hope in God's hearing. He acknowledges the strength of his enemies but maintains that he follows righteousness. The psalm concludes with an urgent appeal for God's swift help, calling Him his salvation.

Outline

1. Plea for mercy and confession of sin
2. Physical and emotional suffering, isolation, and enemy opposition
3. Appeal for deliverance and expression of hope

Themes

sin and punishmentrepentance and confessionGod’s mercy and hope

Keywords

sinsufferingrepentancemercyhopeGodLordDavid

People

DavidLord

Places

Things

arrows of sinwoundslight of my eyesdeafnessdumbness

Key Verses

Psalms 38:1: The opening appeal sets the tone of lament and request for mercy.
Psalms 38:8: Illustrates the psalmist’s brokenness and physical pain.
Psalms 38:22: Ends with a hopeful call for divine help.

Questions

Why does David describe his suffering in terms of bodily injury?
What is the significance of his mention of friends turning away?
How does the psalm reconcile the presence of enemies with the hope for salvation?
In what way does the psalm reflect the broader biblical theme of confession?
What does the final appeal reveal about David’s relationship with God?

Sentiment

mixed
The psalm expresses deep sorrow and physical distress, yet concludes with hopeful faith in God’s help.