Psalm 130:4-8

4 But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.

5 I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.

6 I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.

7 Israel, put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption.

8 He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.

Psalm 130:4-8 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 130

\\<>\\. This psalm is by some thought to have been written by David either when persecuted by Saul, and in great distress, and fearful he should perish by him; or else when in great distress of mind because of sin, after the affair of Bathsheba; and it is reckoned therefore among the penitential psalms. Though others think it was written by Ezra, or some other godly person in the captivity; and Aben Ezra and R. Obadiah interpret it of Israel in captivity. The Syriac inscription is, ``one of the psalms of ascension: it is said concerning Nehemiah the priest (or rather the prince or governor, since Nehemiah was no priest); and it intimates in it the prayer of the martyrs.'' It may be applied to any person in distress, outward or inward; applying to God for help and deliverance, for pardoning grace and mercy; encouraging himself and others to hope for it.

Cross References

• 1. S Exodus 34:7; S 2 Samuel 24:14; S Jeremiah 31:34; Isaiah 55:7; Jeremiah 33:8
• 2. S 1 Kings 8:40
• 3. S Psalms 27:14; Psalms 33:20; Isaiah 8:17; Isaiah 26:8; Isaiah 30:18; Isaiah 49:23
• 4. S Psalms 5:3
• 5. S Psalms 119:74; Psalms 119:81
• 6. Psalms 63:6
• 7. S 2 Samuel 23:4; Psalms 119:147
• 8. S Psalms 25:5; S Psalms 71:14; Psalms 131:3
• 9. S 1 Chronicles 21:13
• 10. S Psalms 111:9; S Romans 3:24
• 11. Luke 1:68
• 12. S Exodus 34:7; S Matthew 1:21