Psalm Ps. 32. This is usually classified as a thanksgiving hymn. Worshipers thank God for the joy of having their sins forgiven. Since the psalm is about confession and forgiveness it can also be classified as a penitential psalm (see Psalms 6; 38 and note; 51; 130; 143).
Ps. 32:1–2 On blessed, see note on 1:1. The terms transgression, forgiven, sin, and iniquity all echo Ex.34:6–7, which is a key passage about God’s kindness and mercy toward those who receive his covenant. No one needs to force God to show mercy. Rather, the faithful confess their sins because they believe God is merciful.
Ps. 32:3–5 Only those who are forgiven are truly happy. When the psalmist kept silent, refusing to confess his sins, God’s hand was heavy upon him. But this was merciful because it led him to confess his sin (vv. 3–4).
Ps. 32:6–11 Therefore. The conclusion for everyone who is godly is to offer prayer (of confession) at a time when God may be found. The psalmist is warning against being foolish and waiting indefinitely (see v. 9) before seeking the Lord.
The ESV Global Study Bible
Copyright © 2012 by Crossway.
All rights reserved.
Used by permission.
The Blue Letter Bible ministry and the BLB Institute hold to the historical, conservative Christian faith, which includes a firm belief in the inerrancy of Scripture. Since the text and audio content provided by BLB represent a range of evangelical traditions, all of the ideas and principles conveyed in the resource materials are not necessarily affirmed, in total, by this ministry.
Loading
Loading
Interlinear |
Bibles |
Cross-Refs |
Commentaries |
Dictionaries |
Miscellaneous |