Psalm 40

The joy of waiting. We all know how much we love to wait! Patience is not exactly a popular modern virtue. We live in a world of instant gratification, where speed is considered both a virtue and necessity. The faster the better . . . and we keep raising the bar . . . so high now that we have lost all perspective. Waiting. It's not easy for us.

This psalm begins with waiting. Patiently waiting. At least that's how he starts. The joy of the good things that come when we wait, God responds, and we feel the joyful resolution. Notice how David expresses this.

A New Song in his mouth
People responding with increased trust
Resting in a clear picture of Who God is ...
- the richness of the ways we have been blessed
- A God Who does not ask of us, but gives of Himself to us
And a heart response of wanting to be a part of the life this God offers

(In Hebrews 10, the author of that letter draws from the language of this Psalm to describe the ministry of Jesus. Take a few moments to compare the two. The richness of David's experience here is used to later describe what Jesus does for us as we respond to Him).

Take a few moments to allow the lyrics of this prayer/song to sink in and draw us out in response.

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Psalm 40

(NIV)

I waited patiently for the LORD;

He turned to me and heard my cry.

He lifted me out of the slimy pit,

out of the mud and mire;

he set my feet on a rock

and gave me a firm place to stand.

He put a new song in my mouth,

a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear the Lord

and put their trust in him.

Blessed is the one

who trusts in the Lord,

who does not look to the proud,

to those who turn aside to false gods.

Many, Lord my God,

are the wonders you have done,

the things you planned for us.

None can compare with you;

were I to speak and tell of your deeds,

they would be too many to declare.

Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—

but my ears you have opened—

burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require.

Then I said, “Here I am, I have come—

it is written about me in the scroll.

I desire to do your will, my God;

your law is within my heart.”

I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly;

I do not seal my lips, Lord,

as you know.

I do not hide your righteousness in my heart;

I speak of your faithfulness and your saving help.

I do not conceal your love and your faithfulness

from the great assembly.

Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord;

may your love and faithfulness always protect me.

For troubles without number surround me;

my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see.

They are more than the hairs of my head,

and my heart fails within me.

Be pleased to save me, Lord;

come quickly, Lord, to help me.

May all who want to take my life

be put to shame and confusion;

may all who desire my ruin

be turned back in disgrace.

May those who say to me, “Aha! Aha!”

be appalled at their own shame.

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!”

But as for me, I am poor and needy;

may the Lord think of me.

You are my help and my deliverer;

you are my God, do not delay.