Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 41

In this wisdom psalm, the psalmist:

• asks for healing (Psalm 41:4, 10),

• laments his distress (Psalm 41:5–9), and

• expresses confidence in the Lord's blessing (Psalm 41:1–3, 11–12).

The poor who suffer hardship have special protection under God's law (Leviticus 14:21; 19:10). They receive God's justice and guidance (Psalms 72:13; 82:3–4). The word translated as poor often means the godly (Psalm 113:7; see Zephaniah 3:12).

on his bed of illness: This illness might be physical or spiritual (see Psalm 6:2; Psalm 38).

The psalmist applies the blessing to himself (Psalm 41:12). He has helped the poor (Psalm 41:1), but he has sinned against the Lord in other ways. In his pain, he asks for healing and admits his sin. Only the Lord can provide the restoration that brings true joy (Psalm 30:2; 107:20–21).

The psalmist’s enemies disguise themselves as friends, while his friends openly become his enemies.

When will he die: The psalmist's enemies see his suffering as a judgment from God (see Psalm 1:6).

the one who shared my bread: Eating together was a sign of unity (Acts 2:42). Refusing to eat with someone was a sign of hostility (1 Corinthians 5:11). Jesus experienced the same kind of betrayal (John 13:1, 18).

The psalmist knows that the Lord has forgiven him and will bless him.

This doxology (song of praise) ends Book One (Psalms 1–41). Compare with Psalm 106:48.