Chapter Outline
David prays for the deliverance of Israel (1–5)
from their enemies.
He entreats God to carry on and complete (6–12)
their victories.Verses 1–5
David owns God's displeasure to be the cause of all the hardships he had undergone. And when
God is turning his hand in our favour, it is good to remember our former troubles. In God's
displeasure their troubles began, therefore in his favour their prosperity must begin. Those breaches
and divisions which the folly and corruption of man make, nothing but the wisdom and grace of
God can repair, by pouring out a spirit of love and peace, by which only a kingdom is saved from
ruin. The anger of God against sin, is the only cause of all misery, private or public, that has been,
is, or shall be. In all these cases there is no remedy, but by returning to the Lord with repentance,
faith, and prayer; beseeching him to return to us. Christ, the Son of David, is given for a banner to
those that fear God; in him they are gathered together in one, and take courage. In his name and
strength they wage war with the powers of darkness.
Verses 6–12
If Christ be ours, all things, one way or another, shall be for our eternal good. The man who is
a new creature in Christ, may rejoice in all the precious promises God has spoken in his holiness.
His present privileges, and the sanctifying influences of the Spirit, are sure earnests of heavenly
glory. David rejoices in conquering the neighbouring nations, which had been enemies to Israel.
The Israel of God are through Christ more than conquerors. Though sometimes they think that the
Lord has cast them off, yet he will bring them into the strong city at last. Faith in the promise will
assure us that it is our Father's good pleasure to give us the kingdom: But we are not yet made
complete conquerors, and no true believer will abuse these truths to indulge sloth, or vain confidence.
Hope in God is the best principle of true courage, for what need those fear who have God on their
side? All our victories are from him, and while those who willingly submit to our anointed King
shall share his glories, all his foes shall be put under his feet.
Chapter 61
Chapter Outline
David seeks God upon former experience. (1–4)
He vows to serve God. (5–8)