This is the heading for Psalm 40: “For the choir director: A psalm of David.” Take some time to read and meditate on this Psalm. There is much for us to consider here but for today can we focus on verses 1-3 as David cries out for help.
Ps 40:1-3 “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.”
I find it interesting that verse one starts with, “I waited patiently.” It was suggested that this reads more like this, “In waiting, I waited.” Perhaps I am the only one here, but when I find myself in a place of crying out for help, in a place of despair, when I feel like I am sinking in the mud, the idea of “waiting patiently” is not the first words that come to mind. Perhaps better said, “I waited impatiently.” Its like Lord, “you can’t come any time to quickly here.” I am ready “now” to be pulled up out of the mud before I sink any deeper.”
It is one thing to be stuck in a pit but being stuck in the mud at the bottom of that pit is another thing. You can’t even get a “good footing” to even try to climb out. It seems the more you struggle to get out the deeper you sink. There comes a point where you realize, I can’t get out on my own. I need someone to rescue me. Would someone please throw me a rope! God does more than throw David a rope, He reaches down and lifts him up and sets him on solid ground.
“David’s Despair meets God's Mercy"
David having experienced Gods mercy in being rescued from the muddy pit, is now moved to write a new song of praise. David could not wait to get this “New Song” to the choir director so all might hear and put their trust in the Lord.
My prayers for you today my friend, as you cry out to God for help, in your deepest pit of despair, may mercy and praise meet! Mercy found in the strong arm of God as He lifts you up and sets you on solid ground and may you then break out with a new song of praise for what He has done! Be sure to tell others of God’s saving power that they may also put their trust in the one and only living God!
Ps 40:16 “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!”