For I am ready to fall
This phrase reflects a deep sense of vulnerability and impending collapse. The psalmist, traditionally understood to be David, expresses a profound awareness of his frailty and the consequences of his sin. In the historical context, David often faced physical and spiritual battles, and this acknowledgment of being "ready to fall" can be seen as a moment of humility and recognition of his need for divine intervention. This sentiment is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 73:2, where the psalmist admits to nearly slipping in faith. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who, in His humanity, experienced physical weakness and relied on the Father, as seen in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:38-39).

and my pain is ever with me
The continuous nature of the pain suggests a chronic condition, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. This enduring suffering can be linked to the consequences of sin, as David often wrote about the weight of his transgressions (Psalm 32:3-4). Culturally, the ancient Near Eastern understanding of suffering often connected it to divine displeasure or testing. This phrase also resonates with the concept of enduring trials as a means of spiritual growth, as seen in James 1:2-4. In a prophetic sense, it foreshadows the suffering servant in Isaiah 53, who bears pain and sorrow for the sake of others, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ, who bore the ultimate pain on the cross for humanity's redemption.

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 38, David is expressing his deep distress and sense of impending downfall. This psalm is a penitential psalm, reflecting his repentance and plea for God's mercy.

2. God
The ultimate recipient of David's plea. David is seeking God's intervention and mercy in his time of suffering and acknowledgment of his sin.

3. Enemies
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of the psalm includes adversaries who are taking advantage of David's weakened state.

4. Jerusalem
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, Jerusalem is often the backdrop for David's life and psalms, representing the center of worship and David's kingship.

5. Suffering
A central theme in this verse, representing both physical and spiritual anguish that David is experiencing.Acknowledgment of Human Frailty
David's admission of being "ready to fall" highlights the importance of recognizing our own weaknesses and limitations. In our spiritual journey, acknowledging our frailty is the first step toward seeking God's strength.

The Reality of Persistent Pain
The phrase "my pain is ever with me" speaks to the ongoing nature of suffering. As believers, we must understand that pain and trials are part of the human experience, but they can drive us closer to God.

The Need for Repentance
This psalm is a reminder of the importance of repentance. David's acknowledgment of his condition is tied to his understanding of sin and the need for God's forgiveness.

Dependence on God
In times of distress, our dependence on God becomes more evident. David's cry for help is a model for us to turn to God in our times of need, trusting in His mercy and grace.

Hope in God's Deliverance
Despite the pain and readiness to fall, there is an underlying hope in God's deliverance. This hope should encourage us to persevere through trials, knowing that God is faithful.Verse 17. - For I am ready to halt. I am weak and helpless, liable at any moment to stumble and fall. And my sorrow is continually before me; i.e. my sin, which I sorrow over, which lies at the root of all my distress (comp. Psalm 51:3).

Parallel Commentaries ...


For
כִּֽי־ (kî-)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

I
אֲ֭נִי (’ă·nî)
Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 589: I

am ready
נָכ֑וֹן (nā·ḵō·wn)
Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine singular
Strong's 3559: To be erect

to fall,
לְצֶ֣לַע (lə·ṣe·la‘)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 6761: Limping, stumbling

and my pain
וּמַכְאוֹבִ֖י (ū·maḵ·’ō·w·ḇî)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 4341: Anguish, affliction

is ever
תָמִֽיד׃ (ṯā·mîḏ)
Adverb
Strong's 8548: Continuance, constant, ellipt, the regular, sacrifice

with me.
נֶגְדִּ֣י (neḡ·dî)
Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's 5048: A front, part opposite, a counterpart, mate, over against, before


Psalm 38:17 NIV
Psalm 38:17 NLT
Psalm 38:17 ESV
Psalm 38:17 NASB
Psalm 38:17 KJV

Psalm 38:17 BibleApps.com
Psalm 38:17 Biblia Paralela
Psalm 38:17 Chinese Bible
Psalm 38:17 French Bible
Psalm 38:17 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Psalm 38:17 For I am ready to fall (Psalm Ps Psa.)