AP

Psalm 40:16-17  But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation say continually, “Great is the LORD!”  As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me.  You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!

Throughout this Psalm, David has been reflecting on what it means to him to have the LORD as his faithful Saviour and loving Deliverer in the midst of all his troubles – both external active opposition, and internal struggles and failures he has experienced.  “For evils have encompassed me beyond number; my iniquities have overtaken me, and I cannot see; they are more than the hairs of my head; my heart fails me.” (verse 12)

He is filled with outspoken praise for his LORD, and wants to distance himself publicly from all those who are against him (verses 13-15).  His fundamental response to all this, in this very distressing situation is continuous, exultant (’glad’) rejoicing and praise.  Because he knows only too well his own weakness and frailty, he is very keen for everyone and anyone who is of like mind to join with him in singing and crying out without restraint, “Great is the LORD!”.

As I reflected on all this, and how much I can identify with David in Psalm 40, it made me both realise and appreciate all the more, how important it is for me to be regularly among God’s people in public worship and praise.  Let us never just ‘take for granted’ the blessing and encouragement we derive from being part of the ‘family of God’.

“Oh how good it is when the family of God dwells together in spirit, in faith and unity.  Where the bonds of peace, of acceptance and love are the fruit of his presence here among us.  So with one voice we’ll sing to the Lord, and with one heart we’ll live out his word, till the whole earth sees the Redeemer has come, for he dwells in the presence of his people.” (Stuart Townend, Keith & Kristyn Getty)

I wondered why in verse 17 David used ‘Adonai’ (Lord) instead of the Covenant Name, ‘Yahweh’ (LORD).  AI suggests it is “because it emphasizes a posture of personal dependency and submission” – which was certainly David’s posture in his immediate circumstances, as is often mine!  I must remember that subtle distinction, Adonai.

– Bruce Christian