Psalm 30—This Psalm of David praises the Lord for having preserved his life, granting him healing. When he seemed to be at the brink of death, the Lord restored him to life among those who go down into the pit. More than just physical healing, however, the Lord also granted David spiritual healing: when David, trusting in himself, said, ‘I shall never be moved,’ the adversity made him repent of his pride. As a result of physical and spiritual healing, David proclaims, ‘You have turned for me my mourning into dancing . . . O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!’
This psalm has a unique title: ‘A Psalm, A Song at the dedication of the house of David.’ Though the title of the psalm (as it is in the English translation) indicates it was written for the dedication of David’s palace. Many Bible scholars thought that it was actually written prophetically for the dedication of the temple – which David prepared for, but Solomon built. Nevertheless, we take this psalm as being written for the dedication of David’s palace. It says nothing about the house itself; rather the focus is on God and the greatness of His deliverance. At the dedication of David’s house, David wanted God to be praised, not himself.
The Hebrew word schir may be here taken not simply for a “song,” but for a “joyful song,” as it is in Genesis 31:27; Exodus 15:1; Psalm 33:3 1.
Collect for Psalm 30: God our Father, glorious in giving life and even more glorious in restoring it. In his last night on earth your Son knew anguish and deep sorrow. Do not turn away from us, or we shall fall back into dust but rather turn our mourning into joy by raising us up with your Son, Christ our Lord. 2
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