Bible Commentaries
Psalms 13

Introduction

A.M. 2944. B.C. 1060.

The occasion of this Psalm was David’s deep and long-continued distress. He complains to God of his delaying to help him, 1, 2. Prays for support and comfort, 3, 4. Declares his trust in God, and promises to give thanks for his goodness, 5, 6.

Verses 1-2

Psalms 13:1-2. How long wilt thou forget That is, neglect or disregard; me, O Lord? for ever? Shall it be during my whole life? How long wilt thou hide thy face? Withdraw thy favour and assistance? How long shall I take counsel, &c. How long shall I be in such perplexities and anxieties of mind, not knowing what course to take, nor how to get out of my troubles?

Verses 3-5

Psalms 13:3-5. Lighten mine eyes Because I find my own counsels insufficient, do thou enlighten my mind, and guide me by thy counsel into the right way of obtaining thy merciful help. Or, he means, Do thou revive, and comfort, and deliver me from the darkness of death, which is ready to come upon me, and to close mine eyes. Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him Namely, by my art or strength; which will reflect dishonour on thee, as if thou wert either unfaithful and unmindful of thy promises, or unable to fulfil them. Therefore prevent, or repress this their arrogance and blasphemy, and maintain thine own honour. I have trusted in thy mercy Neither their threats and boastings, nor my own dangers, shall shake my confidence in thy mercy promised to me.

Verse 6

Psalms 13:6. He hath dealt bountifully with me Either, 1st, In giving me that support and assurance of his favour which I enjoy at the present; or 2d, In giving me gracious promises of the deliverance and help which I expect; it being a common thing for David and other prophets to speak of future deliverances as if they were really come, that so they might signify both the infallible certainty of the thing and their firm assurance thereof.