1. Sing to the Lord you saints of his (1-5)

The Psalmist sounds like a former depression patient. Many enemies were out to get him. He cried out to God from the depths. God lifted him up from the pit and healed him. He learned that God's anger lasts for only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime. God punishes us when we sin, but when we call on him for mercy, he forgives. If we weep tears of repentance at night, rejoicing comes in the morning. Enemies cannot gloat over one who humbles himself before God.

2. You made my mountain stand firm (6-12)

The Psalmist learned that the only real security in life is the security that God gives. He thought he was secure; then God hid his face. He realized that only God could make his mountain stand firm. So he cried out to God for mercy; God turned his wailing into dancing and clothed him with joy. All of God's saints are only forgiven sinners whom he has rescued from the pit. Let us sing songs of thanksgiving to the Lord.

Application: I will exalt you, O Lord, for you lifted me out of the depths.
One Word: God's favor lasts a lifetime