Psalms 40
1I waited patiently for the Lord;he turned to me and heard my cry. 2He lifted me out of the slimy pit,out of the mud and mire;he set my feet on a rockand gave me a firm place to stand. 3He put a new song in my mouth,a hymn of praise to our God.Many will see and fear the Lordand put their trust in him. 4Blessed is the onewho trusts in the Lord,who does not look to the proud,to those who turn aside to false gods. 5Many, 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. 6Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—but my ears you have opened—burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. 7Then I said, “Here I am, I have come—it is written about me in the scroll. 8I desire to do your will, my God;your law is within my heart.” 9I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly;I do not seal my lips, Lord,as you know. 10I 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 faithfulnessfrom the great assembly. 11Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord;may your love and faithfulness always protect me. 12For 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. 13Be pleased to save me, Lord;come quickly, Lord, to help me. 14May all who want to take my lifebe put to shame and confusion;may all who desire my ruinbe turned back in disgrace. 15May those who say to me, “Aha! Aha!”be appalled at their own shame. 16But may all who seek yourejoice and be glad in you;may those who long for your saving help always say,“The Lord is great!” 17But 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.
Study Context for Psalms 40
As you study Psalms 40, keep in mind the overarching themes of this old testament book: Worship, Lament, Praise. Observe how the specific events or teachings in this chapter contribute to the book's broader message.
WorshipLamentPraise
Observation: What does Psalms 40 reveal about the character and nature of God? What does it reveal about humanity?
Application: How does the truth presented in this chapter change how you should live, think, or pray today?
Study introductions and prompts are supplementary aids, not Scripture. They do not replace prayerful reading, the authority of Scripture, a faithful local church, or pastoral care.
Study Psalms 40 more deeply
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