Psalm 30

 

Whether David wrote Psalm 30 to dedicate his own palace dwelling (2 Samuel 5:11-12), the tabernacle when he brought the ark of the LORD back to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:17), or the temple yet to be built (1 Chronicles 21:1-22:6); this psalm begins and ends with praise.  However, it also includes many contrasts, such as pit vs life, moment vs lifetime, weeping vs joy, night vs morning, prosperity vs favor, mourning vs dancing, and sackcloth vs gladness.  These reflect the HOPE of the truth found in Scripture that "this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison" (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:

  • Verses 1-3
    • Just as God has delivered David from physical death, He has lifted us up from spiritual death.  Give God praise for His help, healing, and restoration.
  • Verses 4-5
    • These verses encourage all the saints to join in singing praise and giving thanks.   C.H. Spurgeon says that "the joys of hope" are "mixed with the pains of experience."  What joys of hope can help carry me through my current pains of experience?
  • Verses 6-7
    • David realized that in his prosperity, he trusted in his own strength; but, that it is really the LORD's favor that made his "mountain stand strong."  Are there any areas in my life in which I am trusting in my own strength, rather than in God's?
  • Verses 8-10
    • David pleads for God's mercy to deliver him from the pit; and provides his reason for wanting to live, which is to praise God and tell of His faithfulness.  What are my motivations in life?
  • Verses 11-12
    • Take time now to pray for all who have experienced mourning and grief.  May the truths in these verses bring comfort and hope.


If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:

  • "Mourning into Dancing" by Ron Kenoly with Hosanna! Music: Link

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