“A Case of Distress”

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps.” (Psalms 40:1-2)
 
This Psalm of David is describing some kind of deliverance from a peril.  We shall assume he is speaking of being rescued from spiritual distress.  Perhaps he is talking about an overwhelming temptation.  With this in mind, follow the progression of thought through the Psalm.
 
First, there is the “horrible pit” and “miry clay”.  This figuratively illustrates the wretchedness of one deep in the mire of sin and guilt, and the precipitating results as the guilt weighs heavily upon him.  The transgressor is swallowed up in despair.
 
Second, such distress leads to prayer. (vs.1)  There is a “cry” for God’s help.  The help seems delayed.  “I waited patiently, but waited long”.
 
Third, the prayer is answered. (vs.2)  “He inclined to me and heard my cry”.  “He set me on a rock.”  A sinner who is truly penitent will change his ways and be placed on solid ground.  Our rock is the Rock of Ages.  
 
Fourth, his salvation leads to a new song. “He has put a new song in my mouth-Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, And will trust in the LORD.” (vs. 3) As stated by a well known hymn:  “He took my burdens all away up to a brighter day.  He gave me song, a wonderful song.”  The sinner rejoices in his new life and relationship!
 
Fifth, the penitent’s gratitude for God is expressed in two ways – 1) a full surrender of his will and life (vs. 6-8), and 2) a proclamation of God’s mercy to others. (vs.9, 10)  
 
There is nothing like experiencing the changed life accomplished by the gospel!  He who was at first in the pit, then on his knees, then on a rock, will have power to stand in the market place proclaiming the good news!
 
By George Slover

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