In Psalm 38:14, David describes himself as "like a man who cannot hear, like a dumb man who does not open his mouth." This expression is not one of despair, but an expression of someone who chooses not to retaliate against insults, even when surrounded by those who look forward to his downfall. David's silence was not out of resignation, but rather because his heart knew that true vindication did not come from his attempts at justification, but from God Himself vindicating him.

This psalm invites us to reflect on how sin not only damages our vertical relationship with God, but also creates social alienation. Sin often isolates a person, not only because of the guilt itself, but because of the way society treats people who fall into sin. Yet in the midst of that alienation, David teaches one important response, which is to hope in God and confess before Him. David chose to cry out to God, instead of arguing with his enemies. Silence before men is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of someone who is fighting a prayerful battle before God.

Verses 18-19 become a heartfelt confession, "Indeed I have almost stumbled, and I have been in constant pain; yes, I confess my faults, I am dismayed at my sin." This is the way of restoration, confessing without defending ourselves, bringing our wounds before God, knowing that the traces of sin may not be easily forgotten by those around us. David realized that his enemies would continue to remind him of his guilt, as if that sin would forever be his identity.

Friends of the Bible, let us live by depending on God alone. Even when many people corner us and look down on us. If we live righteously before Him, then any attempt by others to make us look guilty, will not have any significant results. Even all our wounds caused by the words and actions of others will be restored by God according to His mercy.