Psalms of Lamentਨਮੂਨਾ

Our suffering can be a mirror that reveals to us the parts of our hearts that need repairing. Psalm 38 is another penitential psalm that expresses sorrowful regret over sinfulness.

We can learn a lot from David’s example of suffering. Even though David is constant in his affliction, he is persistent in prayer. He knows hope and salvation are only found in the Lord. Romans 12:12 gives us a guide map for trials and suffering: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

What we see from David in this prayer is utter humility. David, a man after God’s heart, feels no sense of entitlement to be free from suffering. David doesn’t compare his situation to that of evil-doers who are in a better position than him. Instead, he is distraught by his sin committed against Almighty God. And in response, he begs the Lord for remembrance.

Suffering isn’t always a symptom of our disobedience. But, in circumstances that it is, God can use our suffering to get our attention and ultimately heal us. When we neglect God’s love for us and follow our flesh in disobedience, we may experience God’s hand of correction. In verse 2, David experienced just this. God’s correction is not to oppress, hurt, or scare us. Instead, it is to correct and remove us from our sin lovingly. God wants to turn our attention from sin because He is a loving father. Our sin serves to enslave us, but God wants to set us free from sin in his son, Jesus Christ. Galatians 5:1 says, “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”

1. What has God set you free from?
2. What are some areas of your life the Lord is trying to get a hold of?

Prayer: Almighty Father, take my life and use it to your desire. I know you have good plans for me, and I trust you fully.

ESV, English Standard Version.