Chapter XVIII.—David as an Example of Humility.

But what shall we say concerning David, to whom such testimony was borne, and of whom^40874087    Or, as some render “to whom.” God said, “I have found a man after mine own heart, David the son of Jesse; and in everlasting mercy have I anointed him?”^40884088    Ps. lxxxix. 21.  Yet this very man saith to God, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, according to Thy great mercy; and according to the multitude of Thy compassions, blot out my transgression.^40894089    “Wash me.…” and following verses omitted in I.  Wash me still more from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.  For I acknowledge mine iniquity, and my sin is ever before me.  Against Thee only have I sinned, and done that which is evil in Thy sight; that Thou mayest be justified in Thy sayings, and mayest overcome when Thou^40904090    Or, “when Thou judgest.” art judged.  For, behold, I was conceived in transgressions, and in sins did my mother conceive me.  For, behold, Thou hast loved truth; the secret and hidden things of wisdom hast Thou shown me.  Thou shalt sprinkle me with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; Thou shalt wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.  Thou shalt make me to hear joy and gladness; my bones, which have been humbled, shall exult.  Turn away Thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.  Create in me a clean heart, O God, and 235renew a right spirit within me.^40914091    Literally, “in my inwards.”  Cast me not away from Thy presence, and take not Thy Holy Spirit from me.  Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation, and establish me by Thy governing Spirit.  I will teach transgressors Thy ways, and the ungodly shall be converted unto Thee.  Deliver me from blood-guiltiness,^40924092    Literally, “bloods.” O God, the God of my salvation:  my tongue shall exult in Thy righteousness.  O Lord, Thou shalt open my mouth, and my lips shall show forth Thy praise.  For if Thou hadst desired sacrifice, I would have given it; Thou wilt not delight in burnt-offerings.  The sacrifice [acceptable] to God is a bruised spirit; a broken and a contrite heart God will not despise.”^40934093    Ps. li. 1–17.