Psalm 40:12 For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me.

Recently I was asked to do a study on a common theme which seems to bother many people. I really had not given it much thought, but it seems to bother many, so it must be important. So I answered the call of my brethren and began the study.

The root word was only used twice in the bible, both in Deuteronomy. The adjective form was only used 4 times. Jesus only used that word once. Paul spoke on it only once. It did not totally shock me that so little of the subject was addressed in the bible. So if the bible has so little to say on the subject, why do we as believers seem to be fixated on the issue? I believe the answer is emotions.

Psalm 40:12 is telling us that our emotions about what is going on around us and our emotions about ourselves keep us from looking to Christ. We tend to place too much emotional attachment to issues that have been resolved by the Lord. He dealt with it, it is handled, it is over, but yet we do seem to be able to let go of it because of our emotions.

Rewrite the last line of Psalm 40:12, “therefore my emotions fail me.”

We have not placed our faith in our emotions, we have placed our faith in Christ. So why do we look for the answers to those things that trouble us anywhere except Christ?

Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.