02.040. Psalm 40

Psalms 40:1-17 To the chief Musician,
A Psalm of David.

Here we have, (1.) David’s hearty acknowledgments of God’s kindness, in bringing him out of long and sore afflictions, Psalms 40:1-5. (2.) His preferring of holy obedience to God, and faithful publication of his truths and praises, to all ceremonial oblations, Psalms 40:6-11. (3.) His improvement of his former deliverance, as an encouragement to supplicate further mercy and protection; an encouragement to confess sin, and implore the pardon thereof; an encouragement to rejoice in, and praise God for his excellencies and favours; to trust him under affliction, and to comfort himself in him, as his help and Saviour, amidst poverty, sinfulness, and trouble, Psalms 40:12-17. But let me here chiefly think, (1.) Of Jesus the great Shepherd of the sheep, who was brought again from his agonies and death, by the blood of the everlasting covenant, and set down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, that he might receive gifts for men, and that our faith and hope might be in God, Psalms 40:1-5. (2.) Let me think of the new covenant, made between him and his eternal Father, for the redemption of sinful men; and of his complete fulfilment of the divine law as the condition thereof, Psalms 40:6-10. (3.) Let me think how our iniquities were charged to his account, and punished on him, as our Surety, Psalms 40:11-13. (4.) Let me think how the unrelenting vengeance of Almighty God, overtook his Jewish betrayers and murderers; and hath, or will overtake his Heathenish, Antichristian, or other implacable enemies; and of the joy and consolation, which flow from and through him to his chosen friends, Psalms 40:14-17.