Psalm 25

A prayer for deliverance, guidance, and forgiveness (vs. 1-7)—This is a lovely song, encompassing much of David’s desires unto Jehovah. It begins with a statement of trust (v. 1), and then there are several requests, the first four of which are “let” such and such happen—let not God’s people be ashamed, but let some limitations be placed upon those who deal wickedly (vs. 2-3). David asks for guidance in verses 4 and 5: “Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me,” and he acknowledges that only God can do such. Then, “Remember…Your tender mercies and lovingkindnesses,” but don’t remember my sins and transgressions (v. 7). And David acknowledges that all of this is based on the mercy and goodness of the Lord (v. 7).

The goodness of God (vs. 8-11). After making these requests, David recognizes some of the wonderful qualities of God. He is good and upright (v. 8), and He will teach sinners and the humble to follow His ways. For “all the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth,” but only for those who “keep His covenant and His testimonies” (v. 10). God’s blessings are always conditioned upon our obedience to Him. David’s own humility is in evidence in verse 11: “Pardon my iniquity, for it is great.” Any humble person, regardless of how righteous they might be, will believe his/her sin to be great. Indeed, the closer one draws to God, the further the distance between seems to be. A better understanding of the holiness of God will produce greater humility and appreciation for just how merciful He had been to us. Note that David wants his sins forgiven, “for Your name’s sake, O Lord.” Shine the spotlight on the mercy and grace of God, where it truly belongs, and not of sinful, unworthy humans who have no right to boast in any of their actions.

The man who fears the Lord (vs. 12-15)—Those who reverence Jehovah will be taught “in the way He chooses” (v. 12), “shall dwell in prosperity” (v. 13), and “his descendants shall inherit the earth” (v. 13). First, he will have descendants—something very important to ancient man—and they shall be blessed with sustenance from the earth. Furthermore, the fearful will have a better understanding of God (v. 14), and “He will show them His covenant.” If we keep our eyes on Him, He will deliver us from trouble (v. 15).

A final prayer (vs. 16-22)—There is a slight change of tone in the final few verses of the psalm. David seems to be in greater distress than at the opening of the song. “I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart have enlarged” (vs. 16-17). He asks for mercy (v. 16) and deliverance (v. 17). Perhaps some trouble had come upon David before he finished composing this song, but more than likely, it simply refers to the condition that mankind often faces—trials and tribulations—and directs us to the One who can save us from them. This theme is followed through the remaining verses—affliction and pain (v. 18), enemies and hatred (v. 19), and shame (v. 20). With the “let me not be ashamed” of verse 20, David returns to a thought he mentioned earlier in the psalm (v. 2), but again, with seemingly a bit more urgency here at the end. He beseeches God for mercy (v. 16), deliverance (v. 17), forgiveness (v. 18), physical protection from his enemies (v. 19), spiritual protection for his soul (or life—v. 20), and redemption for all of Israel (v. 22). He doesn’t ask these favors unconditionally—“Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You” (v. 21). Once more, if we want God’s blessings, then we must be willing to give Him something in return.