Psalms 130 Out of the Depths

The penitent sinner's hope is in God's mercy only

1,2

depths — for great distress (Ps 40:2; 69:3).

3

shouldest mark — or, "take strict account" (Job 10:14; 14:16), implying a confession of the existence of sin. who shall stand — (Ps 1:6). Standing is opposed to the guilty sinking down in fear and self-condemnation (Mal 3:2; Re 6:15, 16). The question implies a negative, which is thus more strongly stated.

4

Pardon produces filial fear and love. Judgment without the hope of pardon creates fear and dislike. The sense of forgiveness, so far from producing licentiousness, produces holiness (Jer 33:9; Eze 16:62, 63; 1Pe 2:16). "There is forgiveness with thee, not that thou mayest be presumed upon, but feared."

5,6

wait for the Lord — in expectation (Ps 27:14). watch for, &c. — in earnestness and anxiety.

7,8

Let Israel, &c. — that is, All are invited to seek and share divine forgiveness. from all his iniquities — or, "punishments of them" (Ps 40:12, &c.).