Psalms 38:17
For I am ready to halt, and my sorrow is continually before me.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
נָכ֑וֹן
For I am ready
H3559
נָכ֑וֹן
For I am ready
Strong's:
H3559
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
Cross References
Psalms 35:15But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not:Psalms 38:6I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long.Psalms 6:6I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears.
Historical Context
Ancient warfare made limping warriors vulnerable to finishing blows from enemies. A 'halting' king couldn't lead troops or flee danger. The metaphor captures David's total dependence on God for stability. His 'readiness to halt' admits he's one blow away from collapse—only God's sustaining hand prevents total ruin.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you maintain awareness of your moral vulnerability ('ready to halt') without sliding into morbid introspection?
- What role does continual remembrance of past sin play in maintaining humility and dependence on grace?
- When is consciousness of 'sorrow continually before me' healthy conviction versus unhealthy inability to receive forgiveness?
Analysis & Commentary
For I am ready to halt, and my sorrow is continually before me. David acknowledges precarious position: ready to halt (נָכוֹן לִצְלֹעַ, nakon litslo'a, prepared for limping/stumbling), and sorrow continually before me (מַכְאוֹב נֶגְדִּי תָמִיד, mak'ov negdi tamid, pain opposite me always). This isn't self-pity but sober self-assessment.
The limping/halting posture suggests both physical weakness and moral vulnerability—one wrong step and he'll fall completely. The sorrow continually before me means perpetual consciousness of failure. Unlike denial or minimizing, David maintains awareness of his condition. This honest acknowledgment of weakness is prerequisite to receiving grace—God gives grace to the humble who know their need (James 4:6).