Bible Commentaries
Psalms 31

Verses 1-24

Psalms 31:5 . Into thine hand I commit my spirit, the words which our Saviour used on the cross, and the words which St. Stephen used the moment before his death, when addressing the Lord Jesus; and most assuredly all the saints would wish to die with the same sentiments, and uttering the same words.

Psalms 31:6 . Lying vanities. The prophets often use the words of Moses, Deuteronomy 32:0., in designating idols by the epithet “vanities,” because the gentiles knew not what they worshipped, walking in the imagination of their hearts.

Psalms 31:10 . My strength faileth because of mine iniquity. The LXX, because of my poor, low, or abject condition. Hebrew piety frequently describes afflictions by the word iniquity. Psalms 103:3.

Psalms 31:23 . His saints. The Hebrew reads, his merciful ones, which joins the fruit with the sanctity of an active life.

REFLECTIONS.

David here, in exile and in trouble, pours out his soul before God, and comforts his heart by a trust and confidence which should never make ashamed. While others trust in forts and strong places, he made the Lord his rock. How happy then is a christian who has the ear of heaven, and the presence of God with him.

David sought deliverance by daily prayer, and by prudent counsel, to be delivered from the net which his enemies had spread for his feet. These should always be our resources in the time of trouble, prudence in conduct, and devotion in the closet. So Moses prayed, while Joshua fought, and Amalek was put to the route.

David relied on the superintending care of providence: my times are in thy hand. Therefore the enemy could not surprise him, and take away his life, without the special permission of God. The hairs of our head are all numbered.

He dwelt not too long on his grief, but counts the mercies and lovingkindnesses of the Lord. Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee! So this man, depressed when he looked at his troubles, was made so happy after prayer that he praises the Lord, and exhorts others to be of good courage.