Psalm 38:
For I will declare mine iniquity;
I will be sorry for my sin.
Vs.18
"Some debate as to whether the
details (of verse 1-8), should be taken literally, and thus as a
reference to a physical illness, or figuratively, making them a vivid
picture of psychological and moral distress.
The detail and length of
the description, as well as its personal nature seem to point to some
serious disease from which David is suffering as he writes.
In addition
to the physical malady, David has been deserted by his friends and
threatened by his foes (verses 12-13). His only hope is to trust in the
Lord (verses 14-16), to whom he presents his lament (verses 17-20), and
his petition (verses 21-22).
Organizationally, David’s opening and closing prayers (in Psalm 38), relate to two onslaughts by enemies.
Introductory Prayer (38:1-2).
O LORD, rebuke me not in thy wrath: neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. Vs.1
First Onslaught: The Enemy Within (38:3-10).
For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me. Vs.4
Second Onslaught: Enemies Without (38:11-20)
My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; and my kinsmen stand afar off. They also that seek after my life lay snares for me: and they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, and imagine deceits all the day long. Vs.11,12
Concluding Prayers (38:21-22).
Forsake me not, O LORD: O my God, be not far from me. Vs.21
Title: “To bring to remembrance”: Literally “To cause to remember”.
BooksOfTheBible
There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin.
Vs.3