In Psalms 39-40, David progresses from a man distressed, distant from God, to a man encouraged and strengthened. He finds keeping silent does not help. “I was mute and silent;
I held my peace to no avail, and my distress grew worse.” The only remedy was to turn to God, “Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear to my cry; hold not your peace at my tears”.
David finds comfort and security in his relationship with God. “I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.” He finds comfort and mercy, “O Lord, you will not restrain your mercy from me; your steadfast love and your faithfulness will ever preserve me“, and ensures others know also, “I have told the glad news of deliverance in the great congregation…I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness“.
David is a great example for us; someone who realises their error, seeks help from God, and rejoices at the support and comfort he finds during his trials.