Psalms 69:10

Psalms 69:10

Verse 10 records, When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach. David’s discipline includes fasting and lament as a way of aligning his will with God’s. Weeping signals sincere sorrow over sin or distress, while fasting expresses self-denial and a desire to seek God more earnestly. In ancient practice, fasting was a communal and personal discipline connected to repentance, mourning, and seeking divine intervention. The phrase “chastened my soul” captures a deep, painful self-scrutiny—an intentional reframing of appetite and comfort to pursue righteousness. The reproach arises because such devotion to God contrasts with the surrounding culture’s values, inviting mockery or misinterpretation. This verse recognizes the personal cost of spiritual discipline and frames it within a faithful response to God’s call.

Theologically, fasting is a form of humble submission before God, acknowledging dependence on Him rather than on physical sustenance or social standing. It signals a longing for God’s mercy and an orientation toward God’s will. In the broader biblical witness, fasting accompanies repentance (Joel 2:12-13) and seeking guidance (Acts 13:2-3). The verse thus ties spiritual discipline to communal integrity—David’s fasting is not about self-promotion but about aligning with God’s purposes and enduring reproach for righteousness. It also points to the paradox that spiritual devotion can carry social cost yet yields inward transformation and reliance on divine mercy.

Practically, fasting or intentional self-denial can still be a meaningful spiritual discipline today. Consider choosing a day each week to fast from a nonessential pleasure or meal, paired with times of prayer for a specific need—your life, community, or leaders. Weeping may translate to honest lament over personal sins or global injustices; bring those sorrows to God with fasting as a sign of seriousness. In doing so, be prepared for mixed reception: some may view it as extreme. Stay anchored in God’s mercy, not human approval. A concrete way to apply this: pair a brief period of fasting with acts of service or prayer for someone facing hardship. The goal is not to manipulate outcomes but to cultivate dependence on God and a deeper longing for His will.

Cross-References: Joel 2:12-13; Matthew 6:16-18; Acts 13:2-3; Ezra 8:21-23