The Goodness of God

Waiting and Worship: The Hope of Psalm 40

Bible Passage: Psalm 40

Summary: Psalm 40 expresses a deep reliance on God in times of trouble, illustrating the journey from despair to deliverance and emphasizing the importance of worship and proclamation of God's faithfulness.

Application: This sermon can help Christians understand the importance of waiting on God's timing and the value of worship as a response to His faithfulness, encouraging them to trust in God's plans even in their struggles.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that God invites us to bring our troubles to Him, assures us of His deliverance, and calls for a response of worship and testimony to others about His goodness.

How this passage could point to Christ: Psalm 40 ultimately points to Christ as the perfect fulfillment of the desires expressed in the psalm. He is the ultimate deliverer and example of complete obedience and worship to the Father.

Big Idea: In all circumstances of life, we are called to wait on the Lord and respond with worship as we recognize His deliverance and faithfulness in our lives.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using Logos, consider delving into the textual variants in Psalm 40 and explore the translations available. Look into commentaries that discuss the structure and key themes of lament and thanksgiving. This will enhance your understanding of its context and deepen your application for today's audience.

1. Waiting Transforms Worry

Psalm 40:1-3

You can start by illustrating how waiting upon the Lord transforms despair into hope. Highlight that trusting in God's timing leads to new songs of praise, which are testimonies of His faithfulness. Emphasize Jesus as the model of waiting on the Father’s timing, paving the way for our deliverance. Invite listeners to reflect on their own 'miry bogs' and commit them to God with faith, trusting that their waiting will culminate in praise.

2. Trust Triumphs Tricks

Psalm 40:4-8

Consider encouraging the congregation to trust in the Lord rather than turn to pride or falsehood. Underline how God's plans, revealed through the psalmist, are ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s obedience and sacrifice. Jesus's perfect submission to the Father’s will models how we can delight in being obedient to God’s Word, knowing His law and trusting His promises. Challenge individuals to live in the reality that trusting God brings blessing and fulfillment.

3. Proclaim Persistence Power

Psalm 40:9-12

Examine how proclamation and confession become vital aspects of worshipful life. Reflect on how the psalmist openly declares God’s righteousness to others, inviting us to emulate this bold witness. Christ, the embodiment of righteousness, empowers us to testify of His works. Maybe you could encourage the congregation to examine their own lives, ensuring they are examples of God’s mercy and truth, loudly proclaiming His goodness.

4. Mercy Magnifies Might

Psalm 40:13-17

Mercy is magnified in times of need; here, the psalmist cries for rescue. Point out how God's mercy is magnified over all adversities, just as Christ’s mercy was over sin and death. Perhaps you could inspire listeners to remain steadfast in seeking God’s mercy, acknowledging their dependence on His deliverance, and encouraging them to persist in prayer and worship even when faced with trials.