Bible Commentaries
Psalms 108

Verses 1-13

Psalms 108:1-13.

V. 1- 3. This psalm consists of the latter part of the fifty-seventh psalm, and the latter part of the sixtieth, with no material alteration. The fifty-seventh was composed, when David fled from Saul in the cave ; and begins with grievous complaints, which are here omitted. (Notes, 57. title. 1- 6.) The sixtieth was written, after David had for some time reigned over all Israel, and when he was engaged in war with the Syrians and others. (Notes, 60. title. 1- 4.) It also begins with complaints of the calamities to which Israel had been exposed ; and these likewise are left out. So that this, as a psalm, is more in the strain of confidence, gratitude, and joyful hope, than either of those from which it is taken ; and thus more suited to a season of thanksgiving for past mercies, and prayer for further deliverance: and it is probable, it was compiled for that purpose. Even with my glory. (1) My tongue, ’ because it chiefly setteth forth the glory of God.’ (Marg. Ref. P. O. 16: Note, Psalms 30:11-12.)

V. 4. ’ It is fit that my thankfulness should be as boundless as thy mercy, which infinitely transcends all my expressions, and hath nothing equal to it, but thy faithfulness and truth. Bp. Patrick. (Marg. Ref.)

V. 5. ’ Let all the world see thy judgments, in that, ’ that thou art God over all, and so confess that thou art ’ glorious.’ (Marg. Ref. Notes, Psalms 57:7-11.)

V. 6 -13. ’ Grant my humble petitions, that by thy ’ mighty power accompanying my arms, I may be an in’ strument of delivering thy beloved people from their oppressors.’ Bp. Patrick. The word, rendered " beloved," is plural : as is the verb also. ’ As he hath spoken to ’ Samuel concerning me, so he will shew himself ’ and holy in his promise ; so that these nations following ’ shall be subject to me.’ (Marg. Ref. Notes, Ix. 5- 12. P. O. latter part.) Nathan also had just before delivered a very encouraging message from God to David. (2 Samuel 7:6-17.) Will triumph. (9) " Triumph thou over " me." Ix. 8. marg. An ironical challenge.

PRACTICAL OBSERVATIONS.

We may with great utility select passages from different psalms, to assist our devotions, encourage our expectations, or enliven our gratitude, in our private concerns, or in those of the church and nation. When the heart is established in faith and love, the tongue being employed in grateful praises will be indeed our glory : and every endowment will become honourable and rofitable to the possessor, in proportion as it is employed in the service and to the glory of God. Those, who can sincerely -use the Psalmist’s language of adoring praise, may pray with assured faith and hope for all the blessings of salvation ; which are secured to them by the faithful promise and covenant of God, and will be effected by his powerful arm, and communicated from his everlasting love and mercy. Let them then expect, " through God, to do valiantly ; " and to receive from him help in every trouble, and victory in every conflict; till Satan and every enemy be bruised under their feet. (Notes, Romans 8:35-39. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Ephesians 6:10-20. Philippians 4:10-13. 2 Timothy 2:1-2.) O Lord, " visit all our souls with this salvation," even with this " favour which thou bearest to thy chosen people ! " Note, Psalms 106:4-5.)