Bible Commentaries
Psalms 130

Introduction

PSALM 130

:-. The penitent sinner's hope is in God's mercy only.

Verse 1

1, 2. depths—for great distress (Psalms 40:2; Psalms 69:3).

Verse 3

3. shouldest mark—or, "take strict account" (Job 10:14; Job 14:16), implying a confession of the existence of sin.

who shall stand— (Job 14:16- :). Standing is opposed to the guilty sinking down in fear and self-condemnation (Malachi 3:2; Revelation 6:15; Revelation 6:16). The question implies a negative, which is thus more strongly stated.

Verse 4

4. Pardon produces filial fear and love. Judgment without the hope of pardon creates fear and dislike. The sense of forgiveness, so far from producing licentiousness, produces holiness (Jeremiah 33:9; Ezekiel 16:62; Ezekiel 16:63; 1 Peter 2:16). "There is forgiveness with thee, not that thou mayest be presumed upon, but feared."

Verse 5

5, 6. wait for the Lord—in expectation (Psalms 27:14).

watch for, &c.—in earnestness and anxiety.

Verse 7

7, 8. Let Israel, &c.—that is, All are invited to seek and share divine forgiveness.

from all his iniquities—or, "punishments of them" ( :-, &c.).