Psalm 6

vs 1

Well, I'm not exactly sure how David is writing this verse - is he saying that he doesn't want God's discipline and rebuke, because he knows God is angry with him, or is he asking God not to rebuke and discipline him while God is angry with him?

vs 2

From the sounds of it, David is already suffering from something, so much so that his bones hurt. He wants healing and mercy, not anger and judgement.

vs 3

It seems like David feels he won't be able to handle this much longer. Even his soul hurts. Probably because God hasn't responded yet.

vs 4

It's not because he is innocent, or because he is king, or because he is sorry even - he asks for salvation because of God's character - God's unfailing love.

vs 5

David figures he is of no use to God if he's dead. So obviously the thing he is suffering is life-threatening.

vs 6

I don't know if you've ever been there, but I haven't. I mean, my life has never been on the line so badly that I've wept right through my couch. I have been exhausted from groaning, and it is especially tiresome.

vs 7

He's used his eyes so much for crying that they don't work for seeing anymore. And it's all because of enemies against him. What a horrible time in his life - no wonder he wants deliverance.

vs 8

David anticipates the Lord's hearing his words, and feels thus able to command the evil ones around him to depart. Perhaps he thinks it is best for them - because otherwise God will get them.

vs 9

Even before he is finished, David is assured of his prayer's hearing and acceptance before God. That's part of faith - we pray because we understand God hears prayer. Otherwise, what would be the point?

vs 10

There is a final reversal. In the beginning, it was David who was under the wrath and discipline of God. By the end, David looks forward to the embarrassment of his enemies through the same.