There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin.
David composed this psalm as a memorial, knowing how quickly God's chastisements slip from our minds even though they ought to instruct us all our lives. The title points to his purpose: to keep the lessons of affliction alive in himself and in others.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 38:1-22
Mental anguish strikes the body like a fire through marrow; divine anger boils the blood and sets every sickness loose. No soundness, no rest, these twin terrors haunt every awakened conscience until Jesus comes with relief, for the sense of sin creates an unrest that hell itself scarcely exceeds.
AI summary
When afflicted, we must call our sins to mind and set them in order before God for humiliation. This psalm teaches the sick what to think and say in their distress, but above all: pray that God's rebuke may not come in wrath, for that makes the affliction wormwood and gall.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 38:1-11