Psalm 130:6

The good news comes in God’s readiness to forgive sinners. His grace encourages people to fear him and hope in him.

Beginning with himself as a representative of the community, the psalmist cries for God’s mercy (Psalm 130:1–3) out of deep distress. He places his hope in the Lord (Psalm 130:4–6), trusting that the Lord will rescue in his own time and way. With this confidence, the psalmist invites Israel to wait for the Lord (Psalm 130:7–8).

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.