Psalms 38:15–22
I wait for You, Lord, to answer me; I confess my sin and my pain while my enemies grow strong, so do not stay far from me, my Savior.
15 For I hope in you, Yahweh. You will answer, Lord my God.
16 For I said, “Don’t let them gloat over me, or exalt themselves over me when my foot slips.”
17 For I am ready to fall. My pain is continually before me.
18 For I will declare my iniquity. I will be sorry for my sin.
19 But my enemies are vigorous and many. Those who hate me without reason are numerous.
20 They who render evil for good are also adversaries to me, because I follow what is good.
21 Don’t forsake me, Yahweh. My God, don’t be far from me.
22 Hurry to help me, Lord, my salvation.
I wait for You, Lord, to answer me; I confess my sin and my pain while my enemies grow strong, so do not stay far from me, my Savior.
To conclude the lament with a definitive act of waiting and confession, seeking an urgent divine response and rescue from unprovoked and powerful adversaries.
Confessing Sin While Waiting for the LORD's Near Help
When sin, suffering, shame, and opposition press in together, the faithful do not hide from God but confess honestly, wait silently, and plead for the LORD their Savior to draw near.