Psalm 32

 


Psalm 32 is another one of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143).  David begins by acknowledging that blessed are those whose transgressions, sins, and iniquities are forgiven, covered, and not counted.  He recounts physically wasting away until he has confessed his transgressions and received forgiveness.  We are assured that God is our hiding place, protector, and deliverer, so that we should not be like a stubborn horse or mule that needs curbing.  This psalm closes with a reminder of the contrast between the wicked and the righteous; in that while the wicked are full of sorrows, the righteous can be glad in the LORD, rejoice, and shout for joy!


Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:
  • Verses 1-2
    • Three common words for sin used in verses 1-2 & 5 are transgression (i.e. rebellion or crossing a line), sin (i.e. failure or falling short of God's will), and iniquity (i.e. crooked or perverse).  We live in a culture that minimizes sin, often calling it just a "mistake."  In contrast, what do the terms transgression, sin, and iniquity tell me about the true nature of my sins?
    • The Apostle Paul references Psalm 32:1-2 in Romans 4:6-8 to illustrate being justified by faith apart from works.  What insight does this add to my understanding of how our sins are forgiven (i.e. taken away), covered (i.e. atoned for), and not counted against us (i.e. justified)?
  • Verses 3-4
    • What can be some effects of hiding, not acknowledging, and not confessing sins in my life?
    • What are sins that I need to confess?
  • Verses 5-7
    • How might the descriptions of God in these verses encourage us to confess our sin, in order to have restored relationship with Him?
  • Verses 8-9
    • Some theologians think that it is God who is speaking in these verses, while others think it is David (e.g. doing what he said in Psalm 51:13, "Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you.").  Either way, it is useful for us to instruct, teach, and counsel others based on what we have learned from God.  So, in what ways might others benefit from what I have personally learned through my struggles and failings?
    • What can happen if I become stubborn like a horse or mule in disobedience to God?
  • Verses 10-11
    • What do these verses remind me about when contrasting the wicked and the righteous?

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "You Are My Hiding Place" by Selah:  Link

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