Verses 1–8
When men become eminent for things as to which they have had few advantages, they should
be more deeply sensible that God has been their Teacher. Happy those to whom the Lord gives that
noblest victory, conquest and dominion over their own spirits. A prayer for further mercy is fitly
begun with a thanksgiving for former mercy. There was a special power of God, inclining the people
of Israel to be subject to David; it was typical of the bringing souls into subjection to the Lord Jesus.
Man's days have little substance, considering how many thoughts and cares of a never-dying soul
are employed about a poor dying body. Man's life is as a shadow that passes away. In their highest
earthly exaltation, believers will recollect how mean, sinful, and vile they are in themselves; thus
they will be preserved from self-importance and presumption. God's time to help his people is,
when they are sinking, and all other helps fail.
Verses 9–15
Fresh favours call for fresh returns of thanks; we must praise God for the mercies we hope for
by his promise, as well as those we have received by his providence. To be saved from the hurtful
sword, or from wasting sickness, without deliverance from the dominion of sin and the wrath to
come, is but a small advantage. The public prosperity David desired for his people, is stated. It adds
much to the comfort and happiness of parents in this world, to see their children likely to do well.
To see them as plants, not as weeds, not as thorns; to see them as plants growing, not withered and
blasted; to see them likely to bring forth fruit unto God in their day; to see them in their youth
growing strong in the Spirit. Plenty is to be desired, that we may be thankful to God, generous to
our friends, and charitable to the poor; otherwise, what profit is it to have our garners full? Also,
uninterrupted peace. War brings abundance of mischiefs, whether it be to attack others or to defend
ourselves. And in proportion as we do not adhere to the worship and service of God, we cease to
be a happy people. The subjects of the Saviour, the Son of David, share the blessings of his authority
and victories, and are happy because they have the Lord for their God.
Chapter 145
Chapter Outline
David extols the power, goodness, and (1–9)
mercy of the Lord.
The glory of God's kingdom, and his care (10–21)
of those that love him.Verses 1–9