July 28
Introduction
Psalm 40: This psalm celebrates what God has done for the author. While many of the psalms that ask God for help demonstrate a movement from despair to praise, this one begins by praising God and concludes with a plea for help. You may wish to compare verses 13–17 with its parallel reading in Psalm 70.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 40:11
LORD, I know you will never stop being merciful to me. Your love and loyalty will always keep me safe.
Reading
40 I waited patiently for the Lord’s help;
then he listened to me and heard my cry.
2 He pulled me out of a dangerous pit,
out of the deadly quicksand.
He set me safely on a rock
and made me secure.
3 He taught me to sing a new song,
a song of praise to our God.
Many who see this will take warning
and will put their trust in the Lord.
4 Happy are those who trust the Lord,
who do not turn to idols
or join those who worship false gods.
5 You have done many things for us, O Lord our God;
there is no one like you!
You have made many wonderful plans for us.
I could never speak of them all—
their number is so great!
6 You do not want sacrifices and offerings;
you do not ask for animals burned whole on the altar
or for sacrifices to take away sins.
Instead, you have given me ears to hear you,
7 and so I answered, “Here I am;
your instructions for me are in the book of the Law.
8 How I love to do your will, my God!
I keep your teaching in my heart.”
9 In the assembly of all your people, Lord,
I told the good news that you save us.
You know that I will never stop telling it.
10 I have not kept the news of salvation to myself;
I have always spoken of your faithfulness and help.
In the assembly of all your people I have not been silent
about your loyalty and constant love.
11 Lord, I know you will never stop being merciful to me.
Your love and loyalty will always keep me safe.
12 I am surrounded by many troubles—
too many to count!
My sins have caught up with me,
and I can no longer see;
they are more than the hairs of my head,
and I have lost my courage.
13 Save me, Lord! Help me now!
14 May those who try to kill me
be completely defeated and confused.
May those who are happy because of my troubles
be turned back and disgraced.
15 May those who make fun of me
be dismayed by their defeat.
16 May all who come to you
be glad and joyful.
May all who are thankful for your salvation
always say, “How great is the Lord!”
17 I am weak and poor, O Lord,
but you have not forgotten me.
You are my savior and my God—
hurry to my aid!
Reflect
The writer begins with an acknowledgment of waiting “patiently for the LORD’s help.” According to verses 2 and 3, how did the writer experience God’s help? Have you ever experienced a time when you needed to wait with patience? What were your thoughts at that time? Reread verses 12–17. For what is the writer seeking God’s help?
Pray
Merciful Lord, your love and loyalty keep me safe. I know that you listen when I pray to you, and that you hear my cries when I call to you for help. I love to do your will, O God, and I keep your teaching in my heart. Thank you for your steadfast love, care, and faithfulness. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 41: A prayer for healing from sickness.
