What is the meaning of Psalm 35:9? Then The word “Then” signals a response to what God has just done. In the earlier verses David pleads for the LORD to contend with those who contend with him. He expects God to act, and when He does, praise will naturally follow. Psalm 30:11–12 says, “You turned my mourning into dancing… O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever”. Deliverance first, rejoicing second—that is the rhythm found throughout Scripture (see also Psalm 40:2–3). my soul David is not offering half-hearted thanks; his entire inner being is engaged. Psalm 103:1 echoes this wholehearted praise: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name”. By addressing his soul, David reminds himself (and us) that worship starts deep inside, beyond mere outward words. will rejoice The phrase “will rejoice” is a deliberate choice: • It points forward—David is confident that praise is inevitable after God’s intervention (compare Psalm 13:5). • It is personal—he owns the decision to celebrate God’s victory. • It is exuberant—the Hebrew idea includes glad shouting, as seen in Psalm 32:11: “Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous; shout for joy, all you upright in heart”. in the LORD The source of joy is not the change in circumstances but the LORD Himself. Psalm 33:21 states, “For our hearts rejoice in Him, because we trust in His holy name”. By anchoring rejoicing “in the LORD,” David keeps his focus on God’s character—faithful, righteous, unchanging—rather than on any temporary relief. and exult To “exult” ramps up the celebration. Habakkuk 3:18 uses the same concept: “Yet I will exult in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation”. The word paints a picture of leaping for joy. Three traits stand out: • Overflowing emotion—praise that cannot be contained. • Visible testimony—others see the believer’s gladness (Psalm 40:3). • Contagious encouragement—fellow believers are stirred to trust God. in His salvation David’s joy is specifically tied to “His salvation.” At the moment, that may mean rescue from enemies, but every act of deliverance foreshadows the ultimate salvation God provides through Christ. Isaiah 12:2 declares, “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid”. Luke 1:47 records Mary saying, “my spirit rejoices in God my Savior”, connecting David’s words to the Messiah’s arrival. Whether it is daily help or eternal redemption, salvation originates with God and centers on Him. summary Psalm 35:9 paints a simple yet profound picture: once God steps in, the believer’s whole being explodes with joy—rejoicing in who the LORD is and overflowing with praise for the salvation He provides. |
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