Psalm 51:12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation; and uphold me with your free spirit. I. DAVID'S PRAYER. It implies — 1. That David had lost the joy of salvation — no uncommon experience. May be caused by — (1) Open sin. (2) Worldliness. (3) Neglect of duty. 2. The desire to have the joy of salvation restored. 3. The desire to maintain a Worthy character. David prayed that he might be kept in a state of mind in which he would willingly, spontaneously, promptly obey God. II. DAVID'S PROMISE. 1. To teach others. Saved sinners are best fitted to tell of the Saviour of sinners. 2. He promises to teach even the worst men — "transgressors," those who are rebels against God and apostates from truth. "The worst men need the best teachers," the worst diseases the most experienced physicians. 3. David promises to teach the worst people the best truths — "Thy ways." This is a marvellous subject, it includes all history and experience. It includes all time and space, all science and art, all truth wherever found. Wonderful theme! It may well fill the mouth of preachers the world over. It will be our song and glory in eternity. "When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." Tell of the ways of God. III. DAVID'S PERSUASION. 1. He was persuaded that his teaching would reach sinners. They would see the evil of transgression; they would be convinced that mercy could be found. The Gospel is mighty; an uplifted Christ is the mightiest magnet the world has ever known. Believe this truth; preach it. 2. He was persuaded that they would be moved to action. This is not a passive verb, "shall be converted." It is an active verb. They shall turn or return. This is its meaning. This is the end to be sought. Men have wandered from God; they must return, 3. David was persuaded that their return would be complete. They would return "unto Thee." Not converted to certain church rites, but to Jesus Christ. Christ first; other things will follow. (R. S. MacArthur, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.WEB: Restore to me the joy of your salvation. Uphold me with a willing spirit. |
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