Psalm 130:3-4

3 If you, LORD, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?

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

Psalm 130:3-4 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 1 Samuel 6:20; S Ezra 9:15; Psalms 76:7; Psalms 143:2; Nahum 1:6; Revelation 6:17
• 2. S Exodus 34:7; S 2 Samuel 24:14; S Jeremiah 31:34; Isaiah 55:7; Jeremiah 33:8
• 3. S 1 Kings 8:40