From this work the Redeemer had his name JESUS, for he shall save his people from their sins,
Mt 1:21.
Chapter 54
Chapter Outline
David complains of the malice of his (1–3)
enemies.
Assurance of the Divine favour and (4–7)
protection.Verses 1–3
God is faithful, though men are not to be trusted, and it is well for us it is so. David has no other
plea to depend upon than God's name, no other power to depend upon than God's strength, and
these he makes his refuge and confidence. This would be the effectual answer to his prayers. Looking
unto David, betrayed by the men of Judah, and to Jesus, betrayed by one of his apostles, what can
we expect from any who have not set God before them, save ingratitude, treachery, malice, and
cruelty? What bonds of nature, or friendship, or gratitude, or covenant, will hold those that have
broken through the fear of God? Selah; Mark this. Let us set God before us at all times; for if we
do not, we are in danger of despair.
Verses 4–7
Behold, God is mine Helper. If we are for him, he is for us; and if he is for us, we need not fear.
Every creature is that to us, and no more, which God makes it to be. The Lord will in due time save
his people, and in the mean time he sustains them, and bears them up, so that the spirit he has made
shall not fail. There is truth in God's threatenings, as well as in his promises; sinners that repent
not, will find it so to their cost. David's present deliverance was an earnest of further deliverance.
He speaks of the completion of his deliverance as a thing done, though he had as yet many troubles
before him; because, having God's promise for it, he was as sure of it as if it was done already. The
Lord would deliver him out of all his troubles. May he help us to bear our cross without repining,
and at length bring us to share his victories and glory. Christians never should suffer the voice of
praise and thanksgiving to cease in the church of the redeemed.
Chapter 55
Chapter Outline