Integral to genuine prayer is the rehearsal of our own story.

But before we hear the specifics of David’s story, we need to see two things: first, that he is now thankful to God for liberation (vv. 1-3, 11-12); second, that he encourages everyone to praise God for God’s goodness and faithfulness (vv. 4-5). In this second element, David reflects on the big picture: God’s anger lasts but awhile; his goodness returns. And then v. 5 says things that are proverbial and memorable:

To be sure, these aren’t glib words but sincere words of one who has seen how God has worked in his life. But they are words that span our experience: from a temporary setback, to the loss of a job, and to life’s (and death’s) more threatening realities. God’s way is to transform death into life.

30:1 I will praise you, O Lord, for you lifted me up,

and did not allow my enemies to gloat over me.

30:2 O Lord my God,

I cried out to you and you healed me.

30:3 O Lord, you pulled me up from Sheol;

you rescued me from among those descending into the grave.

30:4 Sing to the Lord, you faithful followers of his;

give thanks to his holy name.

30:5 For his anger lasts only a brief moment,

and his good favor restores one’s life.

One may experience sorrow during the night,

but joy arrives in the morning.

30:6 In my self-confidence I said,

“I will never be upended.”

30:7 O Lord, in your good favor you made me secure.

Then you rejected me and I was terrified.

30:8 To you, O Lord, I cried out;

I begged the Lord for mercy:

30:9 “What profit is there in taking my life,

in my descending into the Pit?

Can the dust of the grave praise you?

Can it declare your loyalty?

30:10 Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on me!

O Lord, deliver me!”

30:11 Then you turned my lament into dancing;

you removed my sackcloth and covered me with joy.

30:12 So now my heart will sing to you and not be silent;

O Lord my God, I will always give thanks to you.