I waited patiently for the LORD, and He turned to me and heard my cry for help. He brought me up from a desolate pit, out of the muddy clay, and set my feet on a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord (vv. 1–3).
In three magnificent movements treating the subjects of joy (vv. 1–4), thanksgiving (vv. 5–10), and prayer (vv. 11–17), David has flawlessly crafted a sonatina on the sacrifice of praise.
Most likely the psalmist has recently been near death, for he uses the metaphor of a deep pit, lined with slime, to describe his precarious position. But the Lord hears his cry and delivers him—and what a deliverance! Now David’s feet are firmly planted on a rock.
Released from distress, he moves quickly from anxiety to a joyous celebration of God’s power. This fresh vision of God gives David exciting material for a “new song.” He may have arranged an old hymn—and discovering it’s genius—added fresh color and new insights. Or perhaps, in the rush of creativity and exhilaration, he composed an entirely new song. Inner joy results in music!
This event, and other miraculous deliverances in David’s life, were the inspiration for many of his great hymns of praise, shared with his congregation and recorded for generations to come. As a result, thousands “fear and put their trust in the Lord.” Worship becomes witness!
I also will be used of the Lord today in the extent that I place my faith and trust in him and lead others to do so. This is the source of both my joy and my music.
Personal Prayer
Lord, help me not to seek joy and happiness apart from you. And may the songs that come from the deep springs of my heart point others to the Source of all satisfaction.
Don Wyrtzen
Intentional Faith 