Psalm 6
Psalm 6 Meaning
Psalm 6 is the first of the penitential psalms, a raw cry from someone worn down by grief and weakness. David is honest about weeping through the night until his bed is soaked with tears, and he begs God for mercy rather than judgment.
The turn comes near the end: the LORD has heard his weeping and received his prayer. Even in the depths, faith clings to the certainty that God does not despise a broken cry.
Key verses from Psalm 6
“Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I am weak: O LORD, heal me; for my bones are vexed.”
Psalm 6:2
“Return, O LORD, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies’ sake.”
Psalm 6:4
“I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.”
Psalm 6:6
“The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.”
Psalm 6:9
How Psalm 6 points to Jesus
Jesus is acquainted with grief and wept real tears, and He has borne our sorrows. Because He was heard, we can bring our exhaustion and tears to God knowing they are received, not despised.