Verse: I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin. Psalm 38:18

David being the leader of Israel, was ready to write down a Psalm exposing his sins, Oh I am a sinner, especially writing the above verse, what would have the nation thought of David, for David all that mattered was his relationship with the Lord, rest all was secondary.

Background:
This psalm is titled A Psalm of David. To bring to remembrance. “Since with God to remember is to act, this word speaks of laying before Him a situation that cries out for His help.” (Derek Kidner)

It is a song full of pain and dark with guilt, as David felt the sore effects (seemingly both physical and spiritual) of his sin. 

Lessons:

• Standards of God: Lord, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath! Psalm 38:1 – “The anger of others I can bear, but not thine. As thy love is most sweet to my heart, so thy displeasure is most cutting to my conscience.” (Spurgeon). Lord’s standards are so high and perfect, cry out have mercy I have missed the mark, according to your lovingkindness.

• Realization of Situation: There is no soundness in my flesh because of your indignation; there is no health in my bones because of my sin. Psalm 38:3 – How sensitive was David, look at the effect of sin in his life. Oh that we have a listening and sensitive heart like David, when was the last time we made a statement in prayer – no health in my bones because of my sin
• Reality of Sin: For my iniquities have gone over my head; like a heavy burden, they are too heavy for me. Psalm 38:4 – David knew the burden of sin is so heavy to bear, if the Lord is not forgiving and refreshing us, we will get crushed under the weight of sin.
• Confession: I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin. Psalm 38:18 – No playing with words, no excuses – honest cry, I am so sorry Lord, I have sinned against you alone.
• Desperation to Get Well: Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation! Psalm 38:22 – David knew restoration could come only from the Lord, please make haste, I do not want to continue in this state anymore. You alone are my Salvation – My savior Jesus.