Psalm 39 (38):8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

And now, the Iditun reflects on the fleeting illusions of this world while turning his gaze towards enduring Truth, positioned at a midpoint, with something beyond and something behind. He stands on the ground from which he has begun, reaching upward towards that which he aspires to attain. Even after having surmounted many obstacles and trampled upon worldly distractions, he acknowledges that he is not yet complete; his understanding remains not fully realized (Philippians 3:13). For we are saved through hope; yet hope that is visible ceases to be hope; when someone observes something, what else can they hope for? But if we await what we do not behold, we endure with patience (Romans 8:24-25). Thus, he inquires, what should I now anticipate? Is it not the Lord?

Who embodies my endurance? Is it not the Lord? It is rightly stated that he relies on the Lord, having judged the fleeting pleasures of this world. My being is rooted in You, that is, my hope and patience rest in You.

Christ embodies Patience, serving as our hope and our salvation. He is our deliverance and our assurance. When you examine us in your judgment, grant us your mercy, for it is by your strength that our souls and the very essence of our existence are sustained. Hence, we have no dread of the physical demise, but we do fear the death that has the power to enslave or annihilate our spirit, whose foundation is virtue—the very likeness of God that He has breathed into the heart of humanity.

After I have relinquished all these matters, I anticipate Your assistance. The term translated by Aquila conveys a sense of eager expectation, signifying a longing for Your presence and a desire for Your grace. He then reveals the reason behind the afflictions.

Who, then, is my patience if not the Lord? When He asserts that everything is thus and that all earthly matters are futile, what else can serve as my endurance and my hope? Are You not the sole one, O Lord? Indeed, You alone, and both aspects must be approached with contemplation. My very existence is rooted in You. You, O Lord, are my hope; for my existence hinges upon You. Thus, care for Your creation, which with a thankful heart recognizes You as its Creator.

The adverb "now" indicates that David expressed his earlier complaints regarding the fleeting nature of human existence in a state of turmoil and unrest, almost in a feverish state. However, his words impart valuable teachings for us. After acknowledging his failings, he shifts to a place of tranquility and clarity, drawing from devout reflections combined with prayer. This shift is something that worldly individuals might experience, as David reveals in this context. Yet, their folly often prevents them from seeking a solid foundation in God, leaving them in a willful ignorance that allows them to blissfully disregard their own emptiness. We must understand that one cannot truly gaze upon God until they recognize their own vanity and insignificance.