Psalm 13:6

I will sing to the LORD, for He has been good to me.

Study Bible

I will sing
The phrase "I will sing" reflects a personal commitment to worship and praise. In the Hebrew text, the word used here is "אָשִׁירָה" (ashirah), which is derived from the root "שִׁיר" (shir), meaning "to sing." Singing in the biblical context often signifies joy, celebration, and a response to God's goodness. Historically, singing was a central part of Hebrew worship, as seen in the Psalms, which were often sung in the temple. This phrase indicates a transition from lament to praise, showing the psalmist's faith and trust in God's deliverance.

to the LORD
The phrase "to the LORD" specifies the object of the psalmist's praise. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14. This name signifies God's eternal existence and covenantal faithfulness. By directing his song to the LORD, the psalmist acknowledges God's sovereignty and personal relationship with His people. It is a declaration of trust in God's character and His promises.

for He has been good to me
This phrase, "for He has been good to me," is a testimony of God's benevolence and faithfulness. The Hebrew word for "good" is "גָּמַל" (gamal), which can also mean "to deal bountifully" or "to reward." It suggests a sense of completeness and generosity in God's actions towards the psalmist. Historically, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God's goodness is demonstrated through His protection, provision, and guidance. The psalmist's acknowledgment of God's goodness serves as a reminder of the personal and communal experiences of God's grace and mercy throughout biblical history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 13, David is expressing a personal lament that transitions into trust and praise.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and relationship with His people.

3. The Psalmist's Experience
The context of Psalm 13 is a period of distress and waiting, where the psalmist feels forgotten by God but ultimately reaffirms his trust in God's goodness.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Goodness
Even in times of distress, we are called to trust in the inherent goodness of God. The Hebrew word for "good" (tov) implies a sense of well-being and favor that God bestows upon His people.

The Power of Praise
Singing to the Lord is an act of faith and worship. It shifts our focus from our circumstances to God's character and His past faithfulness.

Remembering God's Faithfulness
Reflecting on how God has been good to us in the past can strengthen our faith and encourage us during present trials.

The Role of Lament in Faith
Lament is a valid expression of faith. It allows us to bring our honest emotions before God, leading us to a place of renewed trust and praise.

Joy in the Midst of Trials
Choosing to rejoice and sing to the Lord, even when circumstances are challenging, is a testament to our faith and hope in God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's expression of trust in Psalm 13:6 inspire you to respond to your own challenges?

2. In what ways can you incorporate singing and praise into your daily routine as a reminder of God's goodness?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt forgotten by God. How did you see His goodness in hindsight?

4. How can the practice of lament, as seen in Psalm 13, deepen your relationship with God?

5. What other scriptures encourage you to trust in God's goodness, and how can they be applied to your current life situation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 23
Both psalms reflect David's trust in God's goodness and provision, even in the face of adversity.

Habakkuk 3:17-18
Similar to Psalm 13:6, Habakkuk expresses joy and trust in God despite difficult circumstances.

Philippians 4:4-7
Paul encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord always, paralleling the psalmist's decision to sing to the Lord.

James 1:2-4
James speaks about finding joy in trials, which aligns with the psalmist's transition from lament to praise.