Psalm 6 - Commentary

Introduction

David pleads for God's deliverance in his great distress. In this heartfelt psalm, David reveals his deep anguish and desperation, seeking solace and redemption from the Almighty. Through his words, we witness a profound expression of faith amidst adversity. Let us delve into the intricate layers of Psalm 6 to unravel its timeless wisdom and spiritual significance.

David's Cry for Deliverance

David petitions God to deliver him from his great distress (v. 3). Here he makes it known that God's mercy is delayed. David's grief affected his body and soul (verses 2, 4). It can be seen in (v. 1) that David feels that this grief of David is a chastisement from the Lord. But David does not let his guilt hold him back, he asks for God's forgiveness and boldly asks for God's deliverance. This act of David is an excellent example for every believer. We read in Hosea 6:1, "Let us return unto the Lord; he hath afflicted us, and he will heal us."

Redemption from Accusations

In verse 8 we see David boldly saying to his enemies that they could not reproach him because the Lord had forgiven and redeemed him. In Zechariah chapter 3 we read an excellent example of God rebuking the enemies who blaspheme and accuse God's children and embracing His children as they repent and return to Him.

"Satan stood on his (Joshua's) right hand to oppose him. Then the Lord said to Satan: May the Lord rebuke you; ... then said to him (Joshua): Behold, I will take away your iniquity from you, and He said, 'I have clothed myself with fine clothes' (Zechariah 3:1-4)."

Also, we read in Revelation 12:10 that "he who accuses our brothers day and night before our God is brought down."

Plea for Life

One cannot praise God if one dies. So David wisely pleads with God to give him life (v. 5).

"In Isaiah 38:17-19 we see King Hezekiah using this same strategy to plead with the Lord for his life and healing.

"Hades will not praise you, death will not praise you; those who go down to the pit will not meditate on your truth. As I do today, the living, the living will praise you...' he prays."

God's children will also receive mercy and be blessed when they pray appropriately to the Lord in this way.

In the intricate tapestry of Psalm 6, we find a mosaic of human frailty, divine mercy, and unwavering faith. Through David's anguish and supplication, we are reminded of the enduring power of prayer and the boundless compassion of our Creator. May we, like David, seek refuge in the Lord in times of trouble, trusting in His deliverance and redemption.