Psalm 6:7

My eyes fail from grief; they grow dim because of all my foes.

Study Bible

My eyes fail from grief;
This phrase reflects the deep emotional and physical toll that sorrow can have on a person. In biblical times, expressions of grief were often intense and public, involving weeping and lamentation. The psalmist's mention of failing eyes suggests a profound level of distress, possibly indicating both physical exhaustion and spiritual despondency. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where eyes are described as failing due to overwhelming sorrow or divine judgment (e.g., Lamentations 2:11). The eyes, often seen as the windows to the soul, reflect the inner turmoil and anguish experienced by the psalmist.

they grow dim because of all my foes.
The dimming of the eyes due to adversaries highlights the external pressures and threats faced by the psalmist. In the historical context of ancient Israel, enemies could be both foreign nations and internal adversaries. The psalmist's foes may represent literal enemies or symbolize spiritual and moral challenges. This phrase underscores the persistent and pervasive nature of opposition, which can lead to a sense of hopelessness and vulnerability. The theme of enemies is prevalent throughout the Psalms, often serving as a backdrop for the psalmist's plea for divine intervention and justice (e.g., Psalm 3:1, Psalm 18:3). This struggle against foes can also be seen as a type of Christ, who faced opposition and betrayal yet remained steadfast in His mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 6, David is expressing deep personal anguish and distress, likely during a time of intense persecution or personal trial.

2. Enemies/Foes
The adversaries causing David's grief. These could be literal enemies or symbolic of spiritual or emotional struggles.

3. God
The ultimate source of comfort and deliverance whom David is addressing in his lament.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Grief
Grief is a natural and profound human experience. David's expression of his eyes failing from grief acknowledges the deep emotional and physical toll that sorrow can take on a person.

The Impact of Adversaries
The presence of foes, whether physical or spiritual, can exacerbate our grief. Recognizing the source of our distress can help us address it more effectively.

Turning to God in Distress
David's lament is directed towards God, showing that in our deepest sorrow, we should turn to God for comfort and strength.

The Hope of Deliverance
While the psalm expresses deep sorrow, it is also a prayer for deliverance, reminding us that God is our refuge and strength in times of trouble.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's expression of grief in Psalm 6:7 resonate with your own experiences of sorrow or distress?

2. In what ways can identifying the "foes" in your life help you address the root causes of your grief?

3. How do other scriptures, such as Matthew 5:4, provide comfort and hope in times of mourning?

4. What practical steps can you take to turn to God in your times of distress, following David's example?

5. How can you support others who are experiencing grief, using insights from Psalm 6:7 and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 31:9-10
Similar expressions of distress and physical weakness due to grief, showing a pattern in David's psalms of turning to God in times of trouble.

Lamentations 2:11
The prophet Jeremiah also speaks of eyes failing from tears, connecting the theme of overwhelming sorrow and the physical manifestations of grief.

Matthew 5:4
Jesus' teaching on those who mourn being blessed, offering comfort and hope for those in grief.