What does Psalm 13:6 mean?
What began as a lament of frustrated anguish (Psalm 13:1–4) ends in a song of praise. David cried out to God, sincerely expressing his pain as many people do (Psalm 73:2–3; Habakkuk 1:2–4). David, however, knows that his limitations are not God's failures, and even when circumstances are hard, he chooses to trust the Lord (Psalm 11:1).David will sing to the Lord because the Lord has been so good to him. The word "bountifully" emphasizes the enormous extent of God's goodness. Praise should be constant. Difficult circumstances may not change, but neither does God's love for His people. Because His love is unfailing, God's people can rejoice, knowing that God is good all the time.
The Hebrews encountered many trials when they traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land, but God faithfully provided for them and brought them into the Promised Land. Isaiah 63:9 points out how the Lord cared for His people. This verse states: "In all their afflictions he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old."
Believers must make a choice when trouble strikes. We can despair, curse God, and succumb to fear. Or, we can pray—even if that prayer expresses angst and unhappiness—as we reflect on God's goodness through our praise.
Psalm 13:5–6 forms an important perspective when reading David's earlier cries of frustration (Psalm 13:1–4). David felt he could bring his confusion, hurt, and hardship to God. There, he expressed fears of defeat and a desire to know why God had not yet brought victory. These closing verses express an important background for those questions: David's confidence in the Lord and his joy. David recognizes that God loves him in difficult circumstances just as much as in times of safety. The Lord has proven His grace, so even when he does not fully understand, David chooses to trust in God.
Perhaps facing the overwhelming prospect of a murderous king (1 Samuel 19:1–2), David cries to God in frustration. In his circumstances, he feels abandoned and unloved. He begs God to consider his situation and answer him. David is not merely asking for help; he is asking for an explanation. Despite his confusion, David continues to trust in God and does so confidently. Because God has proven Himself already, David chooses faith in the Lord.
