Between the Lines – Psalm 6
Dr. John Maxwell uses a phrase called living “between the lines”. Rather than relishing one extreme of success versus suffering in the other extreme of failure, one should seek to operate somewhere between extremes. David makes a sudden pivot in this passage. Again, without context, he launches into a plea unto God. It is apparent he is sick, struck with a malady, which is near to death. Not unlike Job’s experience, he feels God has something to do with his illness.
This time he is not outlining the merits of his or anyone else’s righteousness, but the Lord’s. He realizes that his only help comes from the Lord. David is full of praise that he wants to extend only to God, but informs God that it is not possible if he is dead! David also appears to be struck with some sickness, something deep within, which is causing him much grief and sorrow. He can’t sleep in contrast to previous chapters, and spends most of the night weeping either from physical pain, mental anguish, or both.
He also recognizes that he is a spectacle to others that apparently are neither his sympathizers nor those that empathize with him. Whether they contributed to the source of his distress is unclear. What is apparent is that whoever they are, they have not extended grace or mercy towards him and instead add to his misery by taunting him or by being dismissive. At some point David experiences a breakthrough with God in his suffering as he can speak with confidence. God has intervened on his behalf, so his oppressors can now leave him alone.
This supports my original thesis in my approach to the Psalms. It can become an emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows. David is not the least bit inhibited in his expressions, which run the complete spectrum between chapters and often within. This chapter is one of those instances. Although context is important, it is not always necessary to comprehend David’s musings. One can read between the lines and somehow insert oneself into the scenario, thus appreciating the full intent.
Prayer
Lord, we remain in Your care. As Your word says, we don’t want so much success that we forget You. We don’t want so much struggle that we turn away from You. Help us live between the lines of Your blessings and Your loving correction. We ask this in the name of Jesus, amen.
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