Psalm 40 (39):16Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The proclamation of 'Good, good, good' has previously been noted as a form of mockery, as referenced in Psalms 34:21, which states, “Good, good, our eyes have seen.”

In this context, Origen suggests that there is a desire for all to live without sin and to feel ashamed of their wrongful actions, expressing this notion with a proud, “Well, well, well!” Furthermore, Aquila interprets the Hebrew expression as one of lamentation for those recently vanquished.

The term "favour" indicates that salvation is contingent upon God's will; consequently, the individual seeks rescue from distress through divine grace, which is not always granted. Regarding the term "quicken" or its equivalent, it is addressed in other contexts. Here, it suffices to note that although God may postpone His assistance, testing our endurance, in His compassion, He permits us to employ this form of prayer, assuring us that He will address our needs. Subsequently, in keeping with his customary practice, he summons his adversaries to the divine judgment and evaluates them based on their malice and unjust animosity, seeking that God pays heed to his supplication.