Psalms 51:8 - Exposition

Make me to hear joy and gladness (comp. below, Psalms 51:12 ). On forgiveness follows naturally the sense of it, and this sense is in itself a deep satisfaction. But the psalmist seems to ask for something more. He wants not mere negative peace and rest, but the active thrilling joy which those experience who feel themselves restored to God's favour, and bask in the light of his countenance. That the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice . That every ache and pain may cease, and be replaced by gladness and rejoicing.