Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 6

The Prayer of a Suffering BelieverThis section shows the prayer of someone who is truly humbled by suffering. David is deeply troubled, both in body and soul, and he pours out his heart to God. His pain reminds him of his own sins and God’s holiness. He teaches us to turn to God in times of trouble, to fear God’s anger above all else, and to value His mercy and forgiveness most. David’s words show us how to pray honestly when we are hurting.v. 1: David prays, O Lord

v. 2: David says, Have mercy upon me, O Lord

v. 3: David says, My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O Lord

v. 4: David prays, Return, O Lord

v. 5: David reasons, For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks? . He tells God that if he dies, he cannot praise Him among the living. David wants to live so he can thank God and tell others about Him. He knows that serving God on earth brings glory to God. He uses this as a reason for God to heal him (Psalm 30:9; Psalm 88:10 ; Psalm 115:17; Isaiah 38:18 ).

v. 6: David says, I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears . He describes his sorrow. He cries so much at night that his bed is soaked with tears. This shows how deeply he feels his sin and God’s anger. He mourns in private, not to be seen by others, but only before God.

v. 7: David continues, Mine eye is consumed because of grief; it waxeth old because of all mine enemies . His grief is so great that it affects his health. His enemies make his suffering worse by mocking him and being happy about his pain. David’s sadness is like what Jesus felt, who also wept and was sorrowful (Hebrews 5:7 ).When we read or sing these verses , we should remember how serious God’s anger is and be thankful if we are not under it. If we are suffering, we can be comforted by knowing even faithful people like David experienced the same things. Like him, we should humble ourselves and pray, trusting that God will answer us in His mercy.

Confidence in God.This section shows a sudden change in David’s feelings. Earlier, he was full of sorrow and tears, but now he is confident and hopeful. After praying and giving his troubles to God, David feels sure that God will answer him. His sadness turns into joy and trust.v. 8: David says, Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity . He separates himself from wicked people. Before, he was afraid that God’s anger would put him with sinners, but now he knows he belongs to God’s people. The wicked had mocked him and tried to tempt him to give up his faith, but David refuses to listen. He is determined to stay away from sin and those who do evil. Jesus also used these words when He said, Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity (Luke 13:27 ). When God helps us, we should also decide to turn away from sin.

v. 9: David is sure that God has heard his prayer. He says, The Lord

v. 10: David prays that his enemies will be ashamed and troubled. He says, Let all my enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly (Psalm 6:10 ). He wants them to feel sorry for what they have done, and maybe even change their ways. If they do not repent, they will be confused and punished. The trouble they caused David will come back on them. Those who do not honor God will be put to shame.When we read or sing this part of the psalm, we should praise God for hearing our prayers. We should remember His goodness and trust Him, even in hard times. God is always ready to help those who call on Him.