elect, the punishment of the ungodly, and the fulfilment of the promises. Whoever duly considers
these things, will diligently seek the reward of righteousness, and adore the Providence which
orders all thing aright in heaven and in earth.
Chapter 59
Chapter Outline
David prays for deliverance from his (1–7)
enemies.
He foresees their destruction. (8–17)Verses 1–7
In these words we hear the voice of David when a prisoner in his own house; the voice of Christ
when surrounded by his merciless enemies; the voice of the church when under bondage in the
world; and the voice of the Christian when under temptation, affliction, and persecution. And thus
earnestly should we pray daily, to be defended and delivered from our spiritual enemies, the
temptations of Satan, and the corruptions of our own hearts. We should fear suffering as evil-doers,
but not be ashamed of the hatred of workers of iniquity. It is not strange, if those regard not what
they themselves say, who have made themselves believe that God regards not what they say. And
where there is no fear of God, there is nothing to secure proper regard to man.
Verses 8–17
It is our wisdom and duty, in times of danger and difficulty, to wait upon God; for he is our
defence, in whom we shall be safe. It is very comfortable to us, in prayer, to look to God as the
God of our mercy, the Author of all good in us, and the Giver of all good to us. The wicked can
never be satisfied, which is the greatest misery in a poor condition. A contented man, if he has not
what he would have, yet he does not quarrel with Providence, nor fret within himself. It is not
poverty, but discontent that makes a man unhappy. David would praise God because he had many
times, and all along, found Him his refuge in the day of trouble. He that is all this to us, is certainly
worthy of our best affections, praises, and services. The trials of his people will end in joy and
praise. When the night of affliction is over, they will sing of the Lord's power and mercy in the
morning. Let believers now, in assured faith and hope, praise Him for those mercies, for which
they will rejoice and praise him for ever.
Chapter 60