What does Psalm 130:5 mean?
To "wait" on something means to anticipate it happening with some level of attention. To "wait" on a person implies service: anticipating their directions with an intent to obey. In this psalm, the writer is praying for God's forgiveness (Psalm 130:1–4). This statement acknowledges that God does not always answer prayers immediately. When the answer doesn't come soon enough, it's tempting to walk away. Faith leads us to "wait" and rely on God's goodness in the meantime. That comes with yearning (Psalm 130:6), but also trust.David calls on God's people to "Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD" (Psalm 27:14). Under the influence of the Devil, the world opposes believers and persecutes them (2 Corinthians 4:4). But God's Word promises a day of deliverance (Romans 13:11). Second Thessalonians 1:5–10 promises that God will punish the wicked. Believers also have the Lord's promise that He will return to carry them to His Father's house (John 14:1–3). We cannot know exactly when that will happen (Matthew 24:36). While waiting, believers can hope in His promise.
Psalm 130:5–6 declares a willingness to wait for God to respond to prayers for mercy (Psalm 130:1–2). A perfect God does not need to forgive anyone's sin (Psalm 130:3–4), but His constant and enduring love (Psalm 130:7–8) inspire confidence (Hebrews 4:16). Night watchmen eagerly await the dawn which means their work is done; in the same way the psalmist anticipates God's comforting forgiveness. Both Yahweh (Exodus 3:15) and Adonai—meaning "Lord"—are used here to refer to God.
The Lord is absolutely right to judge sin. Nothing can match the standard of His perfection. So, the psalmist asks forgiveness and mercy, trusting entirely in God's nature. This hope is constant and sincere. The Lord is associated with loyal, persistent, caring love for the people of Israel. Despite the sins of the nation, God is ready to redeem them. The first three of four small segments alternate between two common words for God; the last only repeats the word Yahweh (Exodus 3:15).
