avid complains of his enemies and distresses. (1-6) He prays
for comfort, guidance, and deliverance. (7-12)
Verses 1-6: We have no righteousness of our own to plead, therefore
must plead God's righteousness, and the word of promise which he
has freely given us, and caused us to hope in. David, before he
prays for the removal of his trouble, prays for the pardon of
his sin, and depends upon mercy alone for it. He bemoans the
weight upon his mind from outward troubles. But he looks back,
and remembers God's former appearance for his afflicted people,
and for him in particular. He looks round, and notices the works
of God. The more we consider the power of God, the less we shall
fear the face or force of man. He looks up with earnest desires
towards God and his favour. This is the best course we can take,
when our spirits are overwhelmed. The believer will not forget,
that in his best actions he is a sinner. Meditation and prayer
will recover us from distresses; and then the mourning soul
strives to return to the Lord as the infant stretches out its
hands to the indulgent mother, and thirsts for his consolations
as the parched ground for refreshing rain.
Verses 7-12: David prays that God would be well pleased with him, and
let him know that he was so. He pleads the wretchedness of his
case, if God withdrew from him. But the night of distress and
discouragement shall end in a morning of consolation and praise.
He prays that he might be enlightened with the knowledge of
God's will; and this is the first work of the Spirit. A good man
does not ask the way in which is the most pleasant walking, but
what is the right way. Not only show me what thy will is, but
teach me how to do it. Those who have the Lord for their God,
have his Spirit for their Guide; they are led by the Spirit. He
prays that he might be enlivened to do God's will. But we should
especially seek the destruction of our sins, our worst enemies,
that we may be devotedly God's servants.
avid complains of his enemies and distresses. (1-6) He prays
for comfort, guidance, and deliverance. (7-12)