Matthew Henry Commentary Psalms 130:1-4

"Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Jehovah. Lord, hear my voice: Let thine ears be attentive To the voice of my supplications. If thou, Jehovah, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, That thou mayest be feared." — Psalms 130:1-4 (ASV)

The only way of relief for a sin-entangled soul is by applying to God alone. Many things present themselves as diversions, many things offer themselves as remedies, but the soul finds that the Lord alone can heal. And until people are aware of the guilt of sin, and forsake all to come at once to God, it is useless for them to expect any relief. The Holy Ghost gives to such poor souls a fresh sense of their deep necessity, to stir them up to fervent prayers, by the prayer of faith, by crying to God.

And as they love their souls, and as they are concerned for the glory of the Lord, they are not to be lacking in this duty. Why is it that these matters remain so long uncertain for them? Is it not from sloth and despondency that they content themselves with common and customary prayers to God? Then let us rise and act; it must be done, and it brings safety.

We are to humble ourselves before God, as guilty in his sight. Let us acknowledge our sinfulness; we cannot justify ourselves, or plead not guilty. It is our unspeakable comfort that there is forgiveness with him, for that is what we need. Jesus Christ is the great Ransom; he is always an Advocate for us, and through him we hope to obtain forgiveness.

There is forgiveness with You, not that You may be presumed upon, but that You may be feared. The fear of God often represents the whole worship of God. The only motive and encouragement for sinners is this, that there is forgiveness with the Lord.