Book of Psalms - Chapter 6 - Verse 3

The verse "My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?" is a cry of anguish and desperation from the psalmist. The psalmist is expressing deep distress and turmoil in their soul, feeling overwhelmed by their circumstances. The use of the word "vexed" conveys a sense of agitation and trouble, indicating the psalmist's inner turmoil. The psalmist's cry to the Lord, asking "how long?" reflects their longing for relief and deliverance from their suffering. This verse captures the universal human experience of facing challenges and seeking divine intervention for solace and strength. It serves as a reminder that it is natural to turn to God in times of hardship and to seek comfort and reassurance in His presence. The psalmist's plea demonstrates the importance of turning to God in prayer and placing our trust in Him, even in the midst of adversity.

Psalm 6:3 reflects the deep emotional turmoil experienced by the psalmist as he cries out to the Lord in anguish. The phrase "My soul is also sore vexed" emphasizes the intense distress and inner turmoil that the psalmist is going through. The word "sore vexed" in the original Hebrew denotes being troubled or disturbed to the point of being agitated. This vivid description highlights the psalmist's desperate state of mind and spirit.

The second part of the verse, "but thou, O LORD, how long?" reveals the psalmist's desperate plea for relief and deliverance from his suffering. Here, the psalmist is not questioning God's existence or power, but rather expressing a heartfelt longing for God to intervene and bring an end to his distress. The phrase "how long?" is a common lament found in the Psalms, expressing the psalmist's longing for God to act swiftly on his behalf.

In theological interpretation, this verse can serve as a model for believers to express their deepest emotions and struggles to God in times of distress. It reminds us that it is okay to be honest and raw in our prayers, laying our burdens before the Lord and trusting in His faithfulness to bring comfort and relief in due time.