Ps. 40 is a song of praise for God’s faithfulness and past deliverance, and a prayer for God’s immediate help 40:13. Ps. 40:11-17 was probably written later, but I’m glad it was included with 40:1-10, because it’s wise for us to remember God’s goodness and answered prayers in our present times of need. David listed ways of lifestyle closeness to the Lord, so we persevere when our faith is tested.
LORD is the covenant-making, relational name of God. Jesus said he is the Lord, the I AM. I need you Lord:
I. Wait Ps. 40:1
This word for wait means: to wait expectantly, bind together. We bind our hearts in faith to the Lord, to endure the stretching and tension of waiting. Wait expectantly on the Lord to do what he said.
II. Pray Ps. 40:1
David cried out to the Lord in prayer. It was a cry for help. The Lord inclined, as a father bends toward his hurting sons or daughters. The Lord hears our prayers and answers according to his perfect will and timing.
III. Praise Ps. 40:2, 3
Genuine worship comes from God’s grace in our hearts and is expressed in how we live. Praise, worship, thanksgiving, lift our focus and our hearts up to the Lord.
IV. Trust Ps. 40:4, 5
Trust is to rely on, put confidence in. God is trust-worthy. Trust is evidenced by obedience. Respect, here, means to turn to or look to. We do not turn from the Lord to look to, or trust in, anyone who could lead us astray.
V. Delight Ps. 40:6-8
If we delight in doing God’s will, we will store his word in our hearts, and our Father will delight in us. David seemed to apply God’s word to himself. These words also pointed to Jesus, our perfect example Heb. 10:5-7.
VI. Proclaim Ps. 40:9, 10
David proclaimed the good news of God’s righteousness, faithfulness, salvation, lovingkindness, and truth. Thank God, if we know him, we get to live in these blessings and we get to proclaim his goodness to others.
David developed a lifestyle of staying close to the Lord. So when he faced innumerable evils, he didn’t stop these practices. He knew he needed the Lord 40:11-15.
VII. Seek Ps. 40:16, 17
We seek the Lord because we need him. We seek his help, strength, guidance, etc. Poor can mean needy or humble.
In what way(s) do you need the Lord today?
Will you pick at least one of these to focus on this week?