Yes, I confess my iniquity;
This phrase highlights the act of confession, which is a central theme in the Psalms and throughout Scripture. Confession is an acknowledgment of one's sins before God, an essential step in the process of repentance and forgiveness. In the Old Testament, confession was often accompanied by sacrifices and offerings as seen in Leviticus 5:5-6. The act of confessing iniquity is a demonstration of humility and recognition of God's holiness. The Hebrew word for "iniquity" here implies a deep moral failing or guilt, suggesting a profound awareness of personal sin. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes the need for repentance, as seen in 1 John 1:9, which assures believers of forgiveness if they confess their sins. The psalmist's confession can also be seen as a type of Christ, who, though sinless, took upon Himself the iniquities of humanity (Isaiah 53:6).

I am troubled by my sin.
The psalmist expresses a deep emotional and spiritual disturbance caused by sin. This reflects the biblical understanding that sin disrupts one's relationship with God and brings about inner turmoil. The Hebrew word for "troubled" suggests being anxious or in distress, indicating the weight of guilt and the consequences of sin. This sentiment is echoed in Romans 7:24, where Paul laments his struggle with sin. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on communal and individual purity, and sin was seen as a defilement that required cleansing. The psalmist's troubled state can be seen as a precursor to the peace offered through Christ, who provides rest for the weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28-30). This phrase underscores the importance of recognizing the seriousness of sin and the need for divine intervention to restore peace and righteousness.

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 38, David is expressing deep personal repentance and sorrow for his sins.

2. God
The ultimate recipient of David's confession, highlighting the relationship between the sinner and the divine.

3. Sin
The central issue in this verse, representing the moral and spiritual failings that separate humans from God.

4. Confession
The act of acknowledging one's sins before God, which is a key theme in this verse.

5. Repentance
The emotional and spiritual response to sin, involving a sincere turning away from wrongdoing.The Importance of Confession
Confession is a vital step in the process of repentance. It involves acknowledging our sins before God, which is the first step toward healing and restoration.

The Weight of Sin
Sin is not just a moral failing but a spiritual burden that troubles the soul. Recognizing the weight of our sins can lead us to genuine repentance.

God's Readiness to Forgive
While sin troubles us, God is always ready to forgive those who come to Him with a contrite heart. This assurance should encourage us to confess our sins without fear.

The Role of Humility in Repentance
True repentance requires humility. We must be willing to admit our wrongs and seek God's help to overcome them.

The Continuous Need for Repentance
Repentance is not a one-time event but a continual process in the life of a believer. Regular self-examination and confession keep us aligned with God's will.(18) Sorry.--The note of true penitence is here. The sorrow is for the sin itself, not for its miserable results.

Verse 18. - For I will declare mine iniquity; I will be sorry for my sin. The four "fors," beginning four consecutive verses, are somewhat puzzling. Canon Cook suggests that they introduce four reasons for the psalmist's silence (vers. 13, 14) and abstinence front self-justification:

(1) because God hears him, and will make answer for him (ver. 15);

(2) because, if he spoke, he might give further occasion to his enemies (ver. 16);

(3) because he feels in danger, and is conscious of sin (ver. 17); and . . .

Parallel Commentaries ...

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

I confess
אַגִּ֑יד (’ag·gîḏ)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 5046: To be conspicuous

my iniquity;
עֲוֺנִ֥י (‘ă·wō·nî)
Noun - common singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 5771: Iniquity, guilt, punishment for iniquity

I am troubled
אֶ֝דְאַ֗ג (’eḏ·’aḡ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 1672: To be anxious or concerned, to fear

by my sin.
מֵֽחַטָּאתִֽי׃ (mê·ḥaṭ·ṭā·ṯî)
Preposition-m | Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 2403: An offence, its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, expiation, an offender


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OT Poetry: Psalm 38:18 For I will declare my iniquity (Psalm Ps Psa.)