* In Psalm 37, David wrote, "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him" (Psalm 37:7a). Psalm 40 indicates that he practiced what he preached. Read Psalm 40:1-10.

Salvation
* The LORD lifted David "out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire" (40:2a). We do not know David's actual situation, but he needed rescue (deliverance, salvation).

1. What kind of "slimy pits" do we find ourselves in? What is the worst kind of "slimy pit?"

* The LORD lifted David out of the slimy pit and "set his feet on a rock and gave him a firm place to stand" (40:2b). The rock provides stability and safety. The LORD is the Rock. The ultimate stability and safety is realized in the Lord Jesus Christ.

* The LORD put a new song in David's mouth. Through the LORD's saving acts and David's songs of testimony, "many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD" (40:3).

Reflection
* As David reflects on his past salvation, he says, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD" (40:4a, NIrV). Blessed is the person who does not turn aside to lies and false gods (40:4b).

* David is overwhelmed by the LORD's wonders (that is, the things God has done, including his saving acts). He is also overwhelmed by the LORD's thoughts and plans for His people (40:5).

2. As true believers, we have been rescued from the worst "slimy pit." As we reflect on our salvation, what is the proper response? As we reflect on God's wonders and promises, what should we do, and say?

Dedication
* Read Psalm 40:6-8. Sacrifices and offerings were prescribed by God as part of Israel's worship. However, external ritual is not enough. "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1 Samuel 15:22). David desires to do God's will, and have God's law within his heart (Psalm 40:8).

3. How can verses 6-8 apply to our lives today?

4. Like David, we should desire to do God's will. How can we know God's will? How can we have God's law within our hearts?

* In the New Testament, Psalm 40:6-8 is applied to Jesus Christ (Hebrews 10:5-10). Jesus is the ultimate example of doing God's will. Jesus gave his life for our sins. His once-for-all sacrifice was the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrifices and offerings. His death and resurrection are the basis of our salvation, which is received through faith in him.

Proclamation
* Read Psalm 40:9-10. David writes, "I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great congregation" (40:9, NASB). He speaks of God's faithfulness and salvation (40:10). He certainly does not hide it! Rather he is compelled to proclaim the good news of salvation.

5. What is the content of David's good news? As Christian believers, what is the content of the "good news" we need to proclaim? How do verses 9-10 apply to us today?

It's Not Over Yet
* Read Psalm 40:11-17. Though David has experienced past salvation, he still faces trouble, and he still needs God's saving help. Though he is secure in his relationship with God, he still sins, and he is still attacked by his enemies. It's not over yet, but David trusts in God.

Reflection/Application
† Apart from Christ, we are all in the worst "slimy pit." Do you need God to lift you out and set your feet on firm ground? Trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the Savior.

† As a believer, reflect on God's work in your life. Are you responding appropriately? Have you truly dedicated your life to the Lord? Are you telling others about God's righteousness, faithfulness and salvation? Read Romans 12:1-2, and make it your daily prayer.