Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

God’s discipline on David’s sin brought overwhelming guilt and physical pain, which prompted David to confess his sin and wait for the Lord to answer.

What does it mean?

David’s adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband were almost his undoing, accounting for several of his penitential psalms (6, 32, 38, and 51). The description of his physical condition in these passages has led many scholars to believe that David suffered from leprosy. While not all sickness is caused by sin, this chapter certainly confirms that God sometimes uses extreme measures to bring His children to the point of personal recognition regarding wrongdoing. David’s emotional and mental anguish was equally as painful as his physical condition. God’s heavy hand of discipline brought David to the point of desperation and confession.

How should I respond?

Sickness and heartache are part of the human condition simply because sin affects our world. Sometimes though, God may allow trouble to enter your life as a means to get your attention if you haven’t responded to His initial rebuke of sin. Take a moment to ponder the causes of stress and anguish in your life today. Sit quietly before the Lord, asking Him to reveal if any of those things are His discipline. Don’t wait until He brings you to the point of desperation. Confess any sin and move on with a clean conscience.