Psalms
Summary
Psalm 30 is a song of thanksgiving for deliverance from a life-threatening illness or crisis. David extols the LORD for "lifting me up" and not allowing his enemies to rejoice over him. He famously declares that God’s "anger lasts only a moment" but His "favour lasts a lifetime," noting that "weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes in the morning." The psalm records David’s transition from a state of false security in prosperity to a humble realization of his dependence on God. It ends with the joyful testimony that God has "turned my mourning into dancing."
I will exalt you, LORD, for you lifted me out of the depths and did not let my enemies gloat over me.
LORD my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.
You, LORD, brought me up from the grave; you spared me from going down into the pit.
Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name.
For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favour lasts a lifetime; weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes in the morning.
When I felt secure, I said, "I will never be shaken."
LORD, when you favoured me, you made my royal mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed.
To you, LORD, I called; to the Lord I cried for mercy:
"What is gained if I am silenced, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it proclaim your faithfulness?
Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me; LORD, be my help."
You turned my mourning into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. LORD my God, I will praise you for ever.