Psalm 40

When reading the psalms of David, I find it helpful to remember James Moore’s book, “When You're a Christian... the Whole World Is from Missouri.” David was God’s anointed, he was a leader. He was watched closely by his followers, and his detractors, alike. Christians are also closely observed by others. Moore’s book has the sub-title, “Living the Life of Faith in a "Show Me" World.” While Missouri may be the "Show Me" state, for Christians, it is the whole world that says, "If you're a Christian, then show me!" Christians, in the normal course of life, can experience many of the same feelings of the psalmist.

In Psalm 40, David is agonizing over both his own sinful failures, and also the persecution of his enemies. How did he respond to these issues? He spends the first two-thirds of the psalm remembering the faithfulness of God! In verses 6-8, He recalls the substance of worship. In verses 9-10 he recalls the foundation of faith sharing. Then, he lifts his confession and petitions to God’s throne of mercy.

The passage in verses 13-17 is repeated in Psalm 70 because it became a regular part of the liturgical worship of God by Israel. Perhaps you will want to remember parts of this passage in your prayers, and then you can join the psalmist is singing;

“As for me, since I am poor and needy,
    let the Lord keep me in his thoughts.
You are my helper and my savior.
    O my God, do not delay.”

Psalm 40:17

Sē’lah

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What word or phrase in today’s reading of the Psalms

 attracts your attention?

Reflect on that word or phrase.

What insights come to you?

How does this passage touch your life today?

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Reading for June 11, 2012           Psalm 41