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I. THE PRAYER.

1. The blessed Object to whom he repaired. He well knew that "vain is the help of man."

2. The earnest spirit which he manifested (vers. 1, 2). The repetition is very emphatic, and shows how extreme was his need, and how anxiously he implored the Divine Being to interpose on his behalf.

II. THE MUSINGS IN WHICH HE INDULGED (vers. 3, 4).

1. Solemn. "If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities," etc. On such a supposition we must all perish, and that for ever.

2. Joyful. "But there is forgiveness with Thee," etc. This is evident from —

(1)  The titles He assumes (Exodus 34:6).

(2)  The rites He has instituted (Leviticus 16:21, 22).

(3)  The scheme of redemption He has provided. Gethsemane and Calvary.

(4)  The commands He has given (Isaiah 55:7; Acts 17:30).

(5)  The longsuffering He manifests.

(6)  The many instances in which His pardoning mercy has been exercised,

III. THE COURSE PURSUED (vers. 5, 6). His waiting was —

1. Sincere. "My soul doth wait."

(1)  Diligence in use of means.

(2)  Expectation of blessing.

2. Intelligent. "In His Word do I hope."

3. Ardent (ver. 6).

(Expository Outlines.)

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KJV: {A Song of degrees.} Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.

WEB: Out of the depths I have cried to you, Yahweh.