Psalms 6:1-10 - Homilies By W. Forsyth

A cry to God, and its response.

I. THE CRY OF THE FAINTING SOUL . Circumstances are adverse. There is gloom without and within. Conscience accuses. God seems full of wrath. Death is regarded, not as a release, but as the minister of judgment; and the grave, not as a quiet resting-place, but as a "pit," loathsome and terrible. Amidst the darkness, and with fears on every side:

1 . God ' s indignation is deprecated . Affliction is hard to bear; but with God's wrath it would be overwhelming.

2 . God ' s pity is appealed to. Weakness is pleaded, and the hope expressed that in deserved wrath God will remember mercy. His smile will turn the darkness to light.

3 . God ' s deliverance is entreated. It is craved on the ground of God's mercies ( Psalms 6:4 ). It is urged on account of the brevity of life, and because death will put an end to the power of serving God in this world ( Psalms 6:5 ). It is claimed as the only relief for the helpless and miserable ( Psalms 6:7 ).

II. THE RESPONSE OF A GRACIOUS GOD . It is said the darkest hour is that before the dawn. So here the psalmist, in his utter weakness and woe, turning from sin unto God, finds help. A light surprises him like sunrise breaking in suddenly on a dark night ( Psalms 6:8 , Psalms 6:9 ). The answer from God is not only quick and timely, but effectual. Thrice the glad heart says, "God has heard," thus confirming to itself the news which seems almost too good to be true.—W.F.