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Psalm 88:3a "For my soul is full of troubles..."

Day 300 – Psalm 88

“For my soul is full of troubles…” Psalm 88:3a

A VERY SAD PSALM

Psalm 88 must rank as one of the saddest “lament psalm”. The language of lament becomes more and more obvious as we read the Psalm.

“For my soul is full of troubles,
And my life draws near to the grave.”
Psalm 88:3

1. “Full of Troubles”

a) This could well be a reference to the troubles faced by the nation.

b) Heman identified with these troubles of the nation and made them his own.

2. “My soul… my life”

a) The two words “soul” and “life” are used interchangeably (in this context).

b) The use of the word “soul” highlights the extent to which the troubles of life affected him.

i) These troubles were not skin deep.

ii) These troubles were felt deeply.

3. “My life draws near to the grave”

a) The troubles of the nation were often life-threatening.

i) Especially in the face of an invasion from oppressive enemies.

ii) All lives were in danger in war.

b) The priests and Levites

i) Their lives would not be spared even if they were serving God.

ii) Cruel enemies would think nothing of slaying priests/Levites.

c) Personal danger experienced

i) Heman felt that his life was in danger.

ii) He would not attempt to run away from the face of danger.

iii) He would stay and minister as he should; he would pray and continue to sing!