This Psalm’s theme is Joy,
How to have joy and the effects of no joy.
1 Oh, what joy for those
whose disobedience is forgiven,
whose sin is put out of sight!
The effects of forgiveness bring joy
2 Yes, what joy for those
whose record the Lord has cleared of guilt,
whose lives are lived in complete honesty!
When forgiven we are free of guilt brings joy
3 When I refused to confess my sin,
my body wasted away,
and I groaned all day long.
Physical damage of not acknowledging sin.
4 Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.
My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.
Strength is drained and heaviness of heart when Unforgiven
5 Finally, I confessed all my sins to you
and stopped trying to hide my guilt.
I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.”
And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.
A decision must be made to stop fighting God
6 Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time,
that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment.
Pray!
7 For you are my hiding place;
you protect me from trouble.
You surround me with songs of victory.
After forgiveness, there is a realization of protection and victory
8 The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.
He also guides, gives advice and watches over us
9 Do not be like a senseless horse or mule
that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.
The reminder to not live as a person needing control
10 Many sorrows come to the wicked,
but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.
The difference between trusting and not trusting
11 So rejoice in the Lord and be glad, all you who obey him!
Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!