King James Version
Psalms 18
50 verses with commentary
The Lord Is My Rock and My Fortress
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, the servant of the LORD, who spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day that the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul: And he said, I will love thee, O LORD, my strength.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The superscription identifies this as David's song when delivered from enemies and Saul. The Hebrew 'racham' (love) is intense, visceral affection—literally 'love deeply' or 'have compassion.' David's love for Yahweh flows from experienced salvation. This anticipates the greatest commandment to love God with all your heart (Matthew 22:37) and John's teaching that 'we love because He first loved us...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(1) **I will love thee**.—Better, *Dearly do I love thee. *The line is wanting in Samuel.
**My strength.**—This strikes the keynote of the whole poem. The strong, mighty God is the object in David’s thought throughout. It is a warrior’s song, and his conception of Jehovah is a warrior’s conception.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 32
Job 32:1-37:24. Speech of Elihu.
1-6. Prose (poetry begins with "I am young").
**because, &c.--**and because they could not prove to him that he was unrighteous.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. my strength: Heb. my rock
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.</strong> This magnificent verse cascades through seven metaphors for God's protection and deliverance, each building on the previous to paint a comprehensive portrait of divine security. David, facing mortal danger (likely from Saul...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **Rock.**—Better here, *cliff, *keeping “rock” for the next clause. In the first figure the ideas of height and shelter, in the second of broad-based and enduring strength, are predominant.
**Fortress.**—Properly, *mountain castle. *We have the joint figure of the lofty and precipitous cliff with the castle on its crest, a reminiscence—as, in fact, is every one in this “towering of epithets”—o...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 32
Job 32:1-37:24. Speech of Elihu.
1-6. Prose (poetry begins with "I am young").
**because, &c.--**and because they could not prove to him that he was unrighteous.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
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KJV Study Commentary
David calls on Yahweh who is 'worthy to be praised' and finds salvation from enemies. The Hebrew 'halal' (praised) means to boast or celebrate loudly. Calling on God in faith results in deliverance. This pattern—invocation, trust, salvation—appears throughout Scripture and anticipates Romans 10:13: 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' Reformed theology sees effectual calling...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(3) Presents a trifling verbal variation from Samuel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 32
Job 32:1-37:24. Speech of Elihu.
1-6. Prose (poetry begins with "I am young").
**because, &c.--**and because they could not prove to him that he was unrighteous.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. ungodly men: Heb. Belial
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KJV Study Commentary
The 'cords of death' entangled David—Hebrew 'chebel' (ropes/snares) suggests being bound for execution. The 'torrents of destruction' ('beliyaal'—worthlessness/chaos) overwhelmed him. This vivid imagery portrays mortal danger and spiritual attack. It anticipates Christ's suffering where death's cords literally bound Him, yet He broke them in resurrection (Acts 2:24). Reformed theology sees death a...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(4) **The sorrows of death.**—The Hebrew word may mean either *birth pangs *(LXX. and Acts 2:24, where see Note, *New Testament Commentary*)*, *or *cords. *The figure of the hunter in the next verse, “the snares of death,” determines its meaning there to be *cords *(see margin). It is best, therefore, to keep the same rendering here: but there can be little doubt that the version in Samuel, *break...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 32
Job 32:1-37:24. Speech of Elihu.
1-6. Prose (poetry begins with "I am young").
**because, &c.--**and because they could not prove to him that he was unrighteous.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. sorrows: or, cords
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KJV Study Commentary
Sheol's 'cords' entangled and death's 'snares' confronted David. The Hebrew 'she'ol' represents the grave and realm of the dead. The 'moqesh' (snare/trap) suggests being caught with no escape. This language appears in Peter's sermon at Pentecost describing Christ's resurrection as breaking death's cords (Acts 2:24). Reformed theology sees death as the enemy Christ conquered, freeing believers from...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(5) **Hell.**—Heb., *sheôl. *(See Note on Psalm 6:5.)
**Prevented**—*i.e., *suddenly seized upon. The poet seems to feel the cords already tightening on his limbe. He is not dead yet, but like to them who go down to *sheôl. *This verse has one verbal difference from Samuel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**7. Days--**that is, the aged (Job 15:10).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
In distress, David called to Yahweh and his cry reached God's temple—from earth to heaven. The Hebrew 'tsaaq' (cry out) indicates desperate petition. God heard ('shama') his voice, indicating attentive response. This anticipates Jesus teaching to pray to 'Our Father in heaven' (Matthew 6:9) and Hebrews' encouragement to approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). Prayer bridges ea...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(6) **Out Of his temple.**—Rather, Place—plainly, as in Psalm 11:4; Psalm 29:9, the heavenly abode of Jehovah.
**My cry.**—In Samuel only, “my cry in his ears.”
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
8. Elihu claims inspiration, as a divinely commissioned messenger to Job (Job 33:6, 23); and that claim is not contradicted in Job 42:4, 5. Translate: "But the spirit (which God puts) in man, and the inspiration ... is that which giveth," &c.; it is not mere "years" which give understanding (Pr 2:6; Joh 20:22).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God's response to David's prayer: earth shook and trembled, mountains' foundations quaked because God was angry. The Hebrew 'ra'ash' (quake) and 'ga'ash' (shake) describe cosmic upheaval. This theophany imagery recalls Sinai (Exodus 19:18) and anticipates Revelation's earthquake judgments. Reformed theology sees creation responsive to Creator's movements—nature itself reacts to God's intervention ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(7) **The earth shook.**—The sudden burst of the storm is the Divine answer to the sufferer’s prayer. For similar manifestations comp. Psalm 68:7-8; Psalm 77:14-20; Amos 9:5; Micah 1:3; Habakkuk 3:4; but here the colours are more vivid, and the language more intense. In fact, the whole realm of poetry cannot show a finer feeling for nature in her wrath. We first hear the rumbling of the earth, pro...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**9. Great--**rather, "old" (Job 32:6). So Hebrew, in Ge 25:23. "Greater, less" for the older, the younger.
**judgment--**what is right.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kindled by it. out of his nostrils: Heb. by his, etc
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KJV Study Commentary
The theophany intensifies: smoke from God's nostrils, devouring fire from His mouth, glowing coals. This anthropomorphic language portrays God's fierce response to injustice against His anointed. The Hebrew 'ashan' (smoke) and 'esh' (fire) recall Sinai's burning mountain and anticipate Revelation's throne room imagery. Reformed theology uses such language analogically—God's wrath is real though de...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(8) **A smoke.**—Now the thunder-cloud forms—smoke, as it were, from the nostrils of God (comp. Psalm 74:1; Deuteronomy 29:20 : the literal rendering is, “there ascended smoke in his nostrils”)—and intermittent flashes of lightning dart forth and play about the distant summits, seeming to devour everything in its path. (Comp. the expression lambent flame.”)
**Coals were kindled by it.**—Rather, fl...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
10. Rather, "I say."
**opinion--**rather, "knowledge."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and darkness was under his feet.
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KJV Study Commentary
God 'bowed the heavens and came down' with thick darkness under His feet. The Hebrew 'natah' (bowed/stretched) suggests pulling heaven down to earth. The 'araphel' (thick darkness) recalls Sinai's thick cloud (Exodus 20:21). This portrays God bridging infinite distance to rescue His servant. It anticipates the Incarnation—God descending to rescue humanity. Reformed theology sees God's transcendenc...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(9*)* **Darkness.**—Better, *black cloud. *The dark masses of rain-cloud are now gathered, and bend to the earth under the majestic tread of God. (Comp. Nahum 1:3, “and the clouds are the dust of his feet.” (Comp. Psalm 144:5.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
11. Therefore Elihu was present from the first.
**reasons--**literally, "understandings," that is, the meaning intended by words.
**whilst--**I waited until you should discover a suitable reply to Job.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.
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KJV Study Commentary
God rode on a cherub and flew, 'swooping down on the wings of the wind.' Cherubim are throne guardians (Genesis 3:24, Ezekiel 1), indicating God's majestic mobility. The Hebrew 'da'ah' (swoop/fly) suggests swift movement. Wind wings portray God's speed in responding to His servant's cry. This anticipates Revelation's vision of God's throne attended by creatures (Revelation 4). God's transcendent g...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) **Cherub.**—See Exodus 25:19. This passage alone would show how naturally the idea of winged attendants on the Divine Being grew out of the phenomena of cloud and storm. No doubt many features of the developed conception were derived from contact with Assyrian art, but for the poetry of this passage we have only to think of those giant pinions into which cloud so often shapes itself, this cla...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.
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KJV Study Commentary
God made darkness His covering, His canopy around Him 'thick clouds dark with water.' The Hebrew 'sukkah' (covering/booth) and 'chashekah' (darkness) create paradox—God dwells in inaccessible light (1 Timothy 6:16) yet here in darkness. This suggests mystery and hiddenness. Reformed theology affirms God's incomprehensibility—even in revelation, He remains beyond full human grasp (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(11*)* **Secret place.**—Better, *veil. *Comp. Job 22:14; Lamentations 3:44. A better arrangement of the members of this verse is, *He made darkness His veil round about Him; His tent He made of dark waters and black clouds. *Literally, *darkness of waters and blacknesses of clouds. *(Comp. Psalm 97:2; Job 36:29.) In Samuel, instead of “blacknesses” of clouds, the expression used is “bendings,” or...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
13. This has been so ordered, "lest you should" pride yourselves on having overcome him by your "wisdom" (Jr 9:23, the great aim of the Book of Job); and that you may see, "God alone can thrust him down," that is, confute him, "not man." So Elihu grounds his confutation, not on the maxims of sages, as the friends did, but on his special commission from God (Job 32:8; 33:4, 6).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →At the brightness that was before him his thick clouds passed, hail stones and coals of fire.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
From the brightness before God, clouds broke through with hail and coals of fire. The Hebrew 'nogah' (brightness) contrasts with previous darkness, suggesting God's glory breaking through. Hail and fire recall the Egyptian plagues (Exodus 9:24). This theophany uses storm imagery to portray God's powerful intervention. Reformed theology sees God using creation as His arsenal to deliver His people a...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(12) **At the brightness.**—This is obscure. Literally, *From the brightness before him his clouds passed through *(Heb., *avar*—LXX., διῆλθον; Vulg., *transierunt*)* hail and fiery coals. *In Samuel it is “From the brightness before him flamed fiery coals,” which is the description we should expect, and, doubtless, gives the sense we are to attach to our text. Through the dark curtain of clouds t...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
14. I am altogether unprejudiced. For it is not I, whom he addressed. "Your speeches" have been influenced by irritation.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →The LORD also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave his voice; hail stones and coals of fire.
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KJV Study Commentary
Yahweh thundered from heaven; the Most High uttered His voice with hail and coals. The Hebrew 'ra'am' (thunder) represents God's voice (John 12:29, Revelation 4:5). The divine voice accompanied by hail recalls Sinai's thunder and lightning (Exodus 19:16). This anticipates Christ as the Word, God's ultimate communication. Reformed theology sees God's speech as creative and powerful—accomplishing wh...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13) **In** **the heavens.**—The version in Samuel is from the heavens,” which is better. For the thunder as God’s voice see Psalm 29:3, and Note.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
15. Here Elihu turns from the friends to Job: and so passes from the second person to the third; a transition frequent in a rebuke (Job 18:3, 4).
**they left off--**Words were taken from them.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →Yea, he sent out his arrows, and scattered them; and he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God sent out arrows and scattered enemies; lightning flashed and routed them. The Hebrew 'chets' (arrows) and 'baraq' (lightning) are divine weapons. God fights for His people, making natural forces His arsenal. This anticipates Ephesians 6's spiritual warfare where God provides armor and weapons. Reformed theology affirms that human battles ultimately reflect cosmic spiritual conflict between God...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(14) **He** **sent out.**—In the majesty of the storm we have almost forgotten its cause, the Divine wrath against the enemies of the poet. They are abruptly recalled to our remembrance in the suffix (“them”) of the verbs in this verse. So the LXX. and Vulg. Many ancient interpreters, however, understood by *them *“the lightnings,” while Ewald would carry the pronoun on to the “waters” in the next...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →Then the channels of waters were seen, and the foundations of the world were discovered at thy rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of thy nostrils.
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KJV Study Commentary
God's rebuke exposed the channels of the sea and the foundations of the world. The Hebrew 'ga'ar' (rebuke) recalls God rebuking the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21) and Jesus rebuking wind and waves (Mark 4:39). The 'blast of breath from Your nostrils' suggests the same wind that parted the Red Sea. This portrays God's word controlling creation. Reformed theology sees God's sovereignty extending to every na...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(15) **The channels.**—The description of the storm ends with the fury of the wind and the effects of the tempest on the earth’s surface. Comp. Psalms 29, and Milton:—
“Either tropic now
‘Gan thunder and both ends of heaven the clouds,
From many a horrid rift abortive pour’d
Fierce rain with lightning mix’d, water with fire,
In ruin reconciled; nor slept the winds
Within their stony caves, but rus...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**17. my part--**for my part.
**opinion--**knowledge.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many waters. many: or, great
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God 'sent from on high' and 'took' David, drawing him from 'many waters.' The Hebrew 'shalach' (send) and 'laqach' (take) portray divine initiative in salvation. The 'many waters' ('mayim rabbim') represent overwhelming danger. This anticipates Christ's incarnation—God sending His Son from on high to rescue those drowning in sin. Reformed theology emphasizes salvation as entirely God's initiative,...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(16) **He drew me.**—By an exquisite transition from the real to the figurative the poet conceives of these parted waters as the “floods of affliction” (Psalm 18:5), from which Jehovah has rescued him by means of the very storm which was sent, in answer to his prayer, to overwhelm his enemies. Render at once more literally and forcibly, “He laid hold of me and drew me out of great waters.” The con...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
18. "I am full of words," whereas the friends have not a word more to say.
**the spirit--**(Job 32:8; 33:4; Jr 20:9; Ac 18:5).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God delivered David from his 'strong enemy' and those who hated him, for they were 'too mighty' for him. The Hebrew 'chalats' (deliver) means to rescue or snatch away. Acknowledging enemies were 'too mighty' admits human inability, requiring divine intervention. This anticipates believers' confession that apart from Christ we can do nothing (John 15:5). Reformed theology's sola gratia affirms that...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**19. belly--**bosom: from which the words of Orientalists in speaking seem to come more than with us; they speak gutturally. "Like (new) wine (in fermentation) without a vent," to work itself off. New wine is kept in new goatskin bottles. This fittingly applies to the young Elihu, as contrasted with the old friends (Mt 9:7).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
Enemies confronted David 'in the day of my calamity,' but Yahweh was his support. The Hebrew 'mish'en' (support/staff) suggests what prevents falling. When overwhelmed, God provided stability. This parallels Paul's testimony that when weak, God's power is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Reformed theology sees God's sustaining grace as the means by which believers persevere through trials.
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(18) **Prevented.**—Better, *fell upon me unawares. *See this use of the verb, generally however used in a good sense, in Psalm 18:5.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**20. refreshed--**literally, "that there may be air to me" (1Sa 16:23).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God brought David out 'into a broad place' and delivered him because He delighted in him. The Hebrew 'merchab' (broad/spacious place) contrasts with being trapped or confined. Freedom replaces constraint. God's 'chaphets' (delight/pleasure) in David grounds the deliverance in divine love, not human merit. This anticipates believers' acceptance in Christ—God delights in us because of Jesus (Ephesia...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(19) **A large place.**—Comp. Psalm 4:1. But there is direct historical allusion to the settlement of Israel in Canaan, as will be seen by a comparison of the Hebrew with Exodus 3:8, and Numbers 14:8.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
21. "May I never accept," &c. Elihu alludes to Job's words (Job 13:8, 10), wherein he complains that the friends plead for God partially, "accepting His person." Elihu says he will not do so, but will act impartially between God and Job. "And I will not give flattery," &c. (Pr 24:23).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 18
Chapter Outline
David rejoices in the deliverances God wrought for him.(1-19)
He takes the comfort of his integrity, which God had cleared up.(20-28)
He gives to God the glory of all his mighty deeds.(29-50)
**Verses 1-19**
The first words, "I will love thee, O Lord, my strength," are the scope and contents of the psalm. Those that truly love God, may triumph in hi...
Read full commentary →The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.
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KJV Study Commentary
Yahweh dealt with David 'according to my righteousness' and 'cleanness of my hands.' This seems to contradict salvation by grace until recognizing David speaks of covenant faithfulness, not sinless perfection. The Hebrew 'tsedaqah' (righteousness) refers to conformity to covenant, and 'bor' (cleanness) to integrity. This anticipates justification by faith—believers are declared righteous through C...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(20-23) for this protestation of innocence comp. Psalms 7, 17 and Job, *passim. *Self-righteous pride and vindication of one’s character under calumny are very different things. If taken of the nation at large, comp. Numbers 23:21. Here, also, the text in Samuel offers one or two trifling variations from ours.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**22. take me away--**as a punishment (Psa 102:24).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →For I have kept the ways of the LORD, and have not wickedly departed from my God.
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KJV Study Commentary
David kept 'the ways of Yahweh' and did not 'wickedly depart' from God. The Hebrew 'shamar' (kept) suggests careful guarding. The ways of Yahweh are His revealed will in Torah. Not departing 'wickedly' indicates intentional rebellion versus unintentional sin. This anticipates Jesus' teaching about abiding in Him (John 15:1-11) and John's distinction between ongoing sin patterns versus occasional f...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →For all his judgments were before me, and I did not put away his statutes from me.
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KJV Study Commentary
All God's rules were before David; he did not put away statutes. The Hebrew 'mishpat' (rules/judgments) and 'chuqqah' (statutes) refer to divine law. Keeping them 'before' him suggests constant meditation and attention. This parallels Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1:2 about meditating on God's law. Reformed theology emphasizes Scripture's authority and sufficiency, with the godly person saturating mind and...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity. before: Heb. with
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KJV Study Commentary
David was 'blameless' ('tamim'—whole/complete) before God and kept himself from iniquity. Blameless doesn't mean sinless but undivided in loyalty. The Hebrew 'aven' (iniquity) is intentional evil. David maintained integrity despite temptation and opportunity for revenge. This anticipates Paul's goal of blameless holiness (1 Thessalonians 5:23) and Jesus' call to be perfect/complete (Matthew 5:48).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 33 Job 33:1-33. Address to Job, as (Job 32:1-22) TO THE Friends.
**2. mouth--**rather, "palate," whereby the taste discerns. Every man speaks with his mouth, but few, as Elihu, try their words with discrimination first, and only say what is really good (Job 6:30; 12:11).
**hath spoken--**rather, "proceeds to speak."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →Therefore hath the LORD recompensed me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his eyesight. in: Heb. before his eyes
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KJV Study Commentary
Yahweh repaid David 'according to my righteousness,' 'according to the cleanness of my hands in His sight.' The repetition from verse 20 emphasizes covenant faithfulness. The addition 'in His sight' acknowledges God as judge of true righteousness versus mere appearance. This anticipates the Judgment Seat of Christ where works are evaluated (2 Corinthians 5:10) and rewards given for faithfulness (1...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
3. I will speak according to my inward conviction.
**clearly--**rather, "purely"; sincerely, not distorting the truth through passion, as the friends did.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright;
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KJV Study Commentary
This begins a section on God's reciprocal dealings: with the faithful He shows Himself faithful. The Hebrew 'chasid' (faithful/loyal) refers to covenant loyalty. This principle appears throughout Scripture—God responds to people according to their heart toward Him (though salvation remains grace alone). This anticipates Jesus' teaching that the measure you use will be used for you (Matthew 7:2). G...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(25-27) It is better to change all the futures into our present. We cannot explain this description of God’s attitude to man, as if the poet were merely dealing with the conception of the Divine formed in the breast. No doubt his words are amply true in this sense. The human heart makes its God like itself, and to the pure and just He will be a pure and just God, to the cruel and unjust, cruel and...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**4. The Spirit of God hath made me--**as He did thee: latter clause of Job 33:6 (Ge 2:7). Therefore thou needest not fear me, as thou wouldest God (Job 33:7; Job 9:34). On the other hand, "the breath of the Almighty hath inspired me" (as Job 32:8); not as English Version, "given me life"; therefore "I am according to thy wish (Job 9:32, 33) in God's stead" to thee; a "daysman," umpire, or mediato...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the froward thou wilt shew thyself froward. shew thyself froward: or, wrestle
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KJV Study Commentary
With the blameless God shows Himself blameless, with the pure He shows Himself pure. The Hebrew 'tamim' (blameless) and 'barar' (pure/clean) indicate integrity and moral purity. This doesn't mean God changes but that people experience Him according to their relationship with Him. Jesus taught that the pure in heart shall see God (Matthew 5:8). Reformed theology affirms that while God's character i...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(26*)* **Froward . . . froward.**—The use of this one word to render two different Hebrew terms is so far correct, as they both come from roots meaning primarily *to twist. *Both are combined in Proverbs 8:8, “froward (margin, *twisted*) or perverse,” and both are contrasted with “righteousness.” Plainly the metaphor might apply-either to the character itself, “twisted round,” “awry,” “perverse,” ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
5. Images from a court of justice.
**stand up--**alluding to Job's words (Job 30:20).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.
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KJV Study Commentary
God saves the humble ('anav'—afflicted/humble) but brings down the haughty eyes. The Hebrew 'gabhah ayin' (lofty eyes) symbolizes pride. This anticipates Jesus' teaching that the humble will be exalted and proud humbled (Luke 14:11, 18:14). Reformed theology sees pride as the root sin and humility as essential for receiving grace (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5).
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(27) **High looks.**—See variation in Samuel.
**The afflicted people.**—Better, *afflicted folk, *with no distinctive reference to Israel, except, of course, I when the poem became adapted for congregational use.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
6. (See on Job 33:4; Job 31:35; 13:3, 20, 21).
**formed--**Though acting as God's representative, I am but a creature, like thyself. Arabic, "pressed together," as a mass of clay by the potter, in forming a vessel [Umbreit]. Hebrew, "cut off," as the portion taken from the clay to form it [Maurer].
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness. candle: or, lamp
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KJV Study Commentary
Yahweh lights David's lamp and illumines his darkness. The Hebrew 'nir' (lamp) symbolizes life and guidance, while 'choshek' (darkness) represents danger and ignorance. This anticipates Jesus as light of the world (John 8:12) and believers as lights (Matthew 5:14). Reformed theology sees illumination as both intellectual (understanding truth) and spiritual (regeneration). God must give light; we c...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(28) **For thou wilt.**—Better, *Thou makest bright my lamp. *In Samuel, “It is thou Jehovah who art my lamp.” This obvious metaphor is common in Hebrew, as in all literature. Light is an emblem of prosperity, happiness, or life itself. (Comp. Job 18:6; Job 21:17; Proverbs 13:9, &c). It happens to be used very frequently of David and his family (1Kings 11:36; 1Kings 15:4; 2Kings 8:19). Comp. Psalm...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**7. hand--**alluding to Job's words (Job 13:21).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-28**
Those that forsake the ways of the Lord, depart from their God. But though conscious to ourselves of many a false step, let there not be a wicked departure from our God. David kept his eye upon the rule of God's commands. Constant care to keep from that sin, whatever it be, which most easily besets us, proves that we are upright before God. Those who show mercy to others, even...
Read full commentary →For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall. run: or, broken
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KJV Study Commentary
By God's power, David can 'run against a troop' and 'leap over a wall.' The Hebrew 'gadad' (troop/raiding band) and 'shur' (wall) represent humanly impossible obstacles. This demonstrates that divine enablement transcends natural ability. It anticipates Paul's testimony 'I can do all things through Christ' (Philippians 4:13) and the truth that God's strength is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(29) Better with the verbs in the present—
“For by thee I scatter a troop,
By thee I scale walls.”
A graphic reminiscence of warlike exploits. Some, however, read from Samuel “break down,” instead of “leap over.”
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**8. thy words--**(Job 10:7; 16:17; 23:11, 12; 27:5, 6; 29:14). In Job 9:30; 13:23, Job had acknowledged sin; but the general spirit of his words was to maintain himself to be "clean," and to charge God with injustice. He went too far on the opposite side in opposing the friends' false charge of hypocrisy. Even the godly, though willing to confess themselves sinners in general, often dislike sin i...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. tried: or, refined
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KJV Study Commentary
God's way is perfect ('tamim'—complete/blameless), His word is 'tested' ('tsaraph'—refined), and He is a shield to all who take refuge. The testing metaphor recalls purifying precious metals. God's word has proven reliable through generations of testing. The shield imagery portrays God as protector. This anticipates Psalm 119's extensive meditation on Scripture's perfection and Jesus' use of Scrip...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(30) **Tried.**—“Sterling gold,” not dross. (Comp. Psalm 12:6; and for “shield,” Psalm 5:12.) Proverbs 30:5 seems to be taken from this verse.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**9. clean--**spotless.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →For who is God save the LORD? or who is a rock save our God?
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>For who is God save the LORD? or who is a rock save our God?</strong> This rhetorical question forms David's powerful declaration of Yahweh's absolute uniqueness. The Hebrew <em>mi-Eloah</em> (מִי־אֱלוֹהַּ, "who is God") uses <em>Eloah</em>, the singular form of <em>Elohim</em>, emphasizing deity in general. "Save the LORD" (<em>mibalad Yahweh</em>, מִבַּלְעֲדֵי יְהוָה) means "except Yahwe...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(31) Comp. Deuteronomy 32:31, where we see that “rock” was a common term among the tribes of Canaan for their divinities. Notice some trifling variations in Samuel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10. occasions--**for hostility; literally, "enmities" (Job 13:24; 16:9; 19:11; 30:21).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect.
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KJV Study Commentary
God is the one who 'equipped' ('azar'—girded) David with strength and made his way blameless ('tamim'). Divine enablement makes integrity possible. The girding imagery suggests preparation for battle or journey. This anticipates Paul's armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17) and the truth that God works in us to will and work according to His purpose (Philippians 2:13). Holiness is God's gift, not human ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(32) The verse should run on closely from the last. The italics spoil it.
**Girdeth.**—The importance of the girdle in a country where the dress was loose and flowing is shown by many passages of Scripture. It is essential to the warrior as here (comp. Ephesians 6:14, and the Greek expression, “to be girt” *= to be armed*)*, *but also for all active exertion.
**Way.**—Here, not of conduct, but the...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
11. (Job 13:27).
**marketh--**narrowly watches (Job 14:16; 7:12; 31:4).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places.
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KJV Study Commentary
God made David's feet like deer's feet and set him secure on heights. The Hebrew 'ayal' (deer/doe) suggests sure-footedness in dangerous terrain. Heights ('bamah') can mean both physical mountains and metaphorical exaltation. This imagery appears in Habakkuk 3:19 describing confidence in God. Reformed theology sees this as divine providence preparing believers for their calling through trials.
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(33) This verse is borrowed in Habakkuk 3:19. For *swiftness *as an essential of a warrior in Oriental esteem comp. 2Samuel 1:23, and the invariable epithet in Homer’s *Iliad, *“swift-footed Achilles.” For “hind” comp. Genesis 49:21. Observe “his feet” in Samuel.
**My high places.**—With allusion to the mountain fortresses the poet had scaled and won.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12. in this--**view of God and His government. It cannot be that God should jealously "watch" man, though "spotless," as an "enemy," or as one afraid of him as an equal. For "God is greater than man!" There must be sin in man, even though he be no hypocrite, which needs correction by suffering for the sufferer's good.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →He teacheth my hands to war, so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms.
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KJV Study Commentary
God trained David's hands for war and arms to bend a bronze bow. The Hebrew 'lamad' (trained/taught) indicates divine instruction in military skills. Bending a bronze bow required extraordinary strength. This illustrates God's comprehensive providence—even practical skills come from Him. It anticipates Paul's teaching that diverse abilities come from the same Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). All leg...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(34) **So that a bow.**—Better, *and mine arms bend a bow of copper. *For the *copper bow *comp. Job 20:24. *Nechushah, *χαλκὸς, is certainly not *steel, *whether the custom of hardening iron was known to the Jews or not (see Jeremiah 15:12, and art. “Steel,” in Smith’s *Biblical Dict.*)*. *The LXX. and Vulgate have, “thou hast made mine arms a bow of copper.” For this test of strength we naturall...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
13. (Is 45:9).
**his matters--**ways. Our part is, not to "strive" with God, but to submit. To believe it is right because He does it, not because we see all the reasons for His doing it.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness hath made me great. thy gentleness: or, with thy meekness thou hast multiplied me
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KJV Study Commentary
God gave David the 'shield of salvation' and His right hand upheld him. Divine humility ('anavah'—or 'gentleness') made him great. This paradox—God's humility exalting David—anticipates Jesus' teaching that the way up is down (Mark 10:43-45). The Hebrew could mean God's condescension or His training David in humility. Either way, it demonstrates that greatness comes through humility, reversing wor...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(35) **Thy gentleness.**—Or, *meekness, *as in margin. We cannot afford to sacrifice this striking foreshadowing of His saying of Himself, “I am meek and lowly,” to the scare of a word like *anthropomorphism. *Why be afraid to speak of the Divine Being as *meek *any more than as *jealous. *The LXX. and Vulgate have “discipline,” probably through this timidity.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**14. Translate, "Yet, man regardeth it not"; or rather, as Umbreit, "Yea, twice (He repeats the warning)--**if man gives no heed" to the first warning. Elihu implies that God's reason for sending affliction is because, when God has communicated His will in various ways, man in prosperity has not heeded it; God therefore must try what affliction will effect (Joh 15:2; Psa 62:11; Is 28:10, 13).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip. my feet: Heb. mine ankles
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KJV Study Commentary
God enlarged David's steps beneath him so his feet did not slip. The Hebrew 'rachab' (enlarge/widen) suggests making room or creating space for secure movement. Feet not slipping indicates stability in dangerous circumstances. This parallels Psalm 18:19's 'broad place' and anticipates believers' security in Christ where nothing can separate us from God's love (Romans 8:38-39). God creates the cond...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(36) **Thou hast enlarged my steps.**—Comp. Psalm 31:8, which explains the phrase; also Psalm 18:19 above.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**15. slumberings--**light is opposed to "deep sleep." Elihu has in view Eliphaz (Job 4:13), and also Job himself (Job 7:14). "Dreams" in sleep, and "visions" of actual apparitions, were among the ways whereby God then spake to man (Ge 20:3).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were consumed.
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KJV Study Commentary
David pursued enemies and overtook them, not turning back until consumed. The Hebrew 'radaph' (pursue) indicates relentless pursuit. The military victory described demonstrates thorough defeat of enemies. This illustrates the principle that God gives His people victory, not merely survival. It anticipates Christ's complete triumph over sin, death, and Satan, and believers' sharing in that victory ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(37-40) Another retrospective glance of the poet over his past wars. Notice slight variations in Samuel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
16. Literally, "sealeth (their ears) to Himself by warnings," that is, with the sureness and secrecy of a seal He reveals His warnings [Umbreit]. To seal up securely (Job 37:7).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet.
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KJV Study Commentary
David struck down enemies so they could not rise, falling under his feet. The Hebrew 'machats' (struck/shattered) indicates devastating defeat. Enemies under feet imagery appears throughout Scripture symbolizing complete subjugation (Joshua 10:24, Psalm 110:1). This anticipates Christ's enemies made His footstool (Hebrews 10:13) and believers reigning with Him (Revelation 5:10). God grants His peo...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**17. purpose--**Margin, "work." So Job 36:9. So "business" in a bad sense (1Sa 20:19). Elihu alludes to Job's words (Job 17:11). "Pride," an open "pit" (Job 33:18) which God hides or covers up, lest man should fall into it. Even the godly need to learn the lesson which trials teach, to "humble themselves under the mighty hand of God."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. subdued: Heb. caused to bow
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KJV Study Commentary
God equipped ('azar'—girded) David with strength for battle, subduing adversaries beneath him. The repetition of divine enablement emphasizes that victory comes from God, not human might. The subduing ('kara') under him continues the footstool imagery. This parallels Ephesians 6:10's command to be strong in the Lord's strength, not our own. Reformed theology attributes all success to sovereign gra...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18. his soul--**his life.
**the pit--**the grave; a symbol of hell.
**perishing by the sword--**that is, a violent death; in the Old Testament a symbol of the future punishment of the ungodly.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies; that I might destroy them that hate me.
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KJV Study Commentary
God made enemies turn their backs to David so he destroyed those who hated him. Enemies fleeing indicates rout and total victory. The Hebrew 'oreph' (back/neck) suggests retreat. Destroying haters ('sane') demonstrates thorough judgment. This is holy war language where God fights for His people. It anticipates the final judgment where Christ defeats all who oppose Him (Revelation 19:15, 21). God v...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(40) **Thou hast also given.**—Literally, *and as to mine enemies, thou gavest to me the back, *which either means “turned to flight so that only their backs were visible” (Jeremiah 18:17 and Psalm 21:12), or alludes to the common symbolism of defeat—trampling on an enemy’s neck.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
19. When man does not heed warnings of the night, he is chastened, &c. The new thought suggested by Elihu is that affliction is disciplinary (Job 36:10); for the good of the godly.
**multitude--**so the Margin, Hebrew (Keri). Better with the text (Chetib), "And with the perpetual (strong) contest of his bones"; the never-resting fever in his bones (Psa 38:3) [Umbreit].
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →They cried, but there was none to save them: even unto the LORD, but he answered them not.
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KJV Study Commentary
Enemies cried for help but there was no savior, even crying to Yahweh who didn't answer. This stark verse shows God's judgment—He doesn't answer the wicked's appeals. Their crying 'to Yahweh' suggests false or presumptuous prayers. This anticipates Jesus' warning that not everyone who says 'Lord, Lord' will enter the kingdom (Matthew 7:21-23). Reformed theology teaches that God chooses whom to sav...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(41) **Cried.**—Sam. 22 has “looked.”
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**20. life--**that is, the appetite, which ordinarily sustains "life" (Job 38:39; Psa 107:18; Ec 12:5). The taking away of desire for food by sickness symbolizes the removal by affliction of lust, for things which foster the spiritual fever of pride.
**soul--**desire.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Then did I beat them small as the dust before the wind: I did cast them out as the dirt in the streets.
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KJV Study Commentary
David beat enemies 'fine as dust before the wind,' casting them out like 'street mud.' The Hebrew 'shachaq' (beat fine) and 'riq' (pour out/empty) portray complete destruction and humiliation. Dust and mud imagery indicates utter defeat and contempt. This harsh language reflects ancient warfare's brutality and God's judgment. It anticipates Revelation's imagery of Christ treading the winepress of ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(42) **Before the wind.**—In Samuel, the weaker “of the earth.”
**Cast them out**—*i.e., *sweep them before me. In Samuel “stamp and tread them out.” So LXX. here “grind,” or “pound.”
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
21. His flesh once prominent "can no more be seen." His bones once not seen now appear prominent.
**stick out--**literally, "are bare." The Margin, Hebrew (Keri) reading. The text (Chetib) reads it a noun "(are become) bareness." The Keri was no doubt an explanatory reading of transcribers.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Thou hast delivered me from the strivings of the people; and thou hast made me the head of the heathen: a people whom I have not known shall serve me.
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KJV Study Commentary
God delivered David from 'strife of the peoples' and made him 'head of nations.' The Hebrew 'riyb' (strife/contention) suggests both internal and external conflict. Being head ('rosh') over nations indicates expanded rule beyond Israel. People David didn't know served him. This anticipates Christ's reign over all nations (Psalm 2:8, Philippians 2:10-11) and the gathering of Gentiles into God's kin...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(43) **People.**—The parallelism favours the interpretation which takes “people” as equivalent to *peoples*—the Gentiles. But as in Samuel it is “my people,” explain it of the early political troubles of David. Notice also in Samuel “preserved,” instead of “made.”
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**22. destroyers--**angels of death commissioned by God to end man's life (2Sa 24:16; Psa 78:49). The death pains personified may, however, be meant; so "gnawers" (see on Job 30:17).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall submit themselves unto me. As soon: Heb. At the hearing of the ear submit: or, yield feigned obedience strangers: Heb. sons of the stranger
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KJV Study Commentary
Foreigners came cringing, submitting 'as soon as they heard.' The Hebrew 'shama' (heard) suggests David's reputation preceded him. The 'cringing' ('kachash'—pretending/yielding reluctantly) indicates submission without genuine loyalty. This demonstrates God establishing David's authority through reputation and fear. It anticipates Christ's name before which every knee will bow (Philippians 2:10), ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(44) **As soon as**—*i.e.*, at the bare mention of my victories. An actual instance is recorded (2Samuel 8:9, *seq.*)*. *For the expression, comp. Job 42:5.
**The strangers shall.**—See margin. More literally, *come with flattery. *In Samuel the two clauses are transposed and slightly varied.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
23. Elihu refers to himself as the divinely-sent (Job 32:8; 33:6) "messenger," the "interpreter" to explain to Job and vindicate God's righteousness; such a one Eliphaz had denied that Job could look for (Job 5:1), and Job (Job 9:33) had wished for such a "daysman" or umpire between him and God. The "messenger" of good is antithetical to the "destroyers" (Job 33:23).
**with him--**if there be vo...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →The strangers shall fade away, and be afraid out of their close places. strangers: Heb. sons of the stranger
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KJV Study Commentary
Foreigners lost heart and came trembling from their fortresses. The Hebrew 'nabel' (lost heart/faded) and 'chagar' (trembling/girding) indicate fear causing paralysis. Strong fortifications couldn't prevent terror when facing God's anointed. This anticipates Rahab's testimony that Jericho's hearts melted hearing of Yahweh's acts (Joshua 2:11) and the ultimate fear at Christ's return (Revelation 6:...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(45) **Fade away**—*i.e.*, wither like vegetation before a scorching blast.
**Be afraid out of their close places.**—Better, *come trembling out of their castles. *LXX. and Vulgate have “grow old and came limping from their paths.”
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
24. Apodosis to Job 33:23.
**he--**God.
**Deliver--**literally, "redeem"; in it and "ransom" there is reference to the consideration, on account of which God pardons and relieves the sufferers; here it is primarily the intercession of Elihu. But the language is too strong for its full meaning to be exhausted by this. The Holy Ghost has suggested language which receives its full realization onl...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.
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KJV Study Commentary
David exclaims 'Yahweh lives!' and blesses his Rock. The Hebrew 'chai' (lives) affirms God's vitality versus dead idols. 'Tsur' (Rock) emphasizes God's stability and protection. Exalting the God of salvation demonstrates proper response to deliverance—worship. This anticipates believers' eternal worship described in Revelation where the redeemed praise God for salvation (Revelation 5:9-10, 7:10).
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(46-50) The psalm concludes with a burst of joyous praise, in which the previous figures are recalled in brief touches.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
25-28. Effects of restoration to God's favor; literally, to Job a temporal revival; spiritually, an eternal regeneration. The striking words cannot be restricted to their temporal meaning, as used by Elihu (1Pe 1:11, 12).
**his flesh shall be fresher than a child's--**so Naaman, 2Ki 5:14, spiritually, Joh 3:3-7.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →It is God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me. avengeth: Heb. giveth avengements for subdueth: or, destroyeth
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KJV Study Commentary
God who 'avenges' David and 'subdues peoples' is exalted. The Hebrew 'nathan' (gives) vengeance indicates divine justice, not personal revenge. God subduing ('dabar'—bring down) peoples demonstrates His sovereignty over nations. This balances personal deliverance with cosmic authority. It anticipates God's ultimate judgment of all nations (Matthew 25:31-46) and Christ's reign where every enemy is ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
25-28. Effects of restoration to God's favor; literally, to Job a temporal revival; spiritually, an eternal regeneration. The striking words cannot be restricted to their temporal meaning, as used by Elihu (1Pe 1:11, 12).
**his flesh shall be fresher than a child's--**so Naaman, 2Ki 5:14, spiritually, Joh 3:3-7.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man. violent: Heb. man of violence
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KJV Study Commentary
God delivered David from enemies, exalted him above adversaries, and rescued him from violent men. The Hebrew 'palat' (deliver), 'rum' (exalt), and 'natsal' (rescue) are three distinct salvation terms showing comprehensive deliverance. The 'violent man' ('chamac'—violent/ruthless) may specifically reference Saul. This demonstrates God's multifaceted salvation—rescue, elevation, and protection. It ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
25-28. Effects of restoration to God's favor; literally, to Job a temporal revival; spiritually, an eternal regeneration. The striking words cannot be restricted to their temporal meaning, as used by Elihu (1Pe 1:11, 12).
**his flesh shall be fresher than a child's--**so Naaman, 2Ki 5:14, spiritually, Joh 3:3-7.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name. give: or, confess
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KJV Study Commentary
Therefore David will praise Yahweh among nations and sing to God's name. The Hebrew 'yadah' (praise) suggests public thanksgiving. Praising among 'goyim' (nations/Gentiles) anticipates the gospel going to all peoples. Paul quotes this verse in Romans 15:9 as evidence that God always intended Gentile inclusion. This reveals that even Old Testament deliverance pointed to universal salvation through ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(49) In Romans 15:9, St. Paul quotes this verse, together with Deuteronomy 32:43 and Psalm 117:1, as proof that salvation was not in God’s purpose confined to the Jews. It seems almost too magnificent a thought in David, that he could draw the surrounding nations within the circle of the religion as he had drawn them within the dominion of Israel. Nor is it likely that an individual would use such...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
25-28. Effects of restoration to God's favor; literally, to Job a temporal revival; spiritually, an eternal regeneration. The striking words cannot be restricted to their temporal meaning, as used by Elihu (1Pe 1:11, 12).
**his flesh shall be fresher than a child's--**so Naaman, 2Ki 5:14, spiritually, Joh 3:3-7.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →Great deliverance giveth he to his king; and sheweth mercy to his anointed, to David, and to his seed for evermore.
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KJV Study Commentary
God gives great victories to His king and shows steadfast love to His anointed—David and his offspring forever. The Hebrew 'yeshuah' (victories/salvation) connects deliverance and salvation. 'Chesed' (steadfast love) is covenant faithfulness. This points beyond David to Christ, the ultimate anointed one (Messiah). God's promise 'forever' anticipates the eternal kingdom. Reformed theology sees Davi...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(50) This verse is by many treated as a late liturgical addition to the hymn. The change to the third person is certainly somewhat suggestive of this, but by no means conclusive.
The question of the relation of the two copies of this hymn to each other is far too complicated and difficult for discussion here. Each has been again and again claimed as the original. The best explanation of the variat...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
29. Margin, "twice and thrice," alluding to Job 33:14; once, by visions, Job 33:15-17; secondly, by afflictions, Job 33:19-22; now, by the "messenger," thirdly, Job 33:23.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-50**
When we praise for one mercy, we must observe the many more, with which we have been compassed all our days. Many things had contributed to David's advancement, and he owns the hand of God in them all, to teach us to do likewise. In verse #(32), and the following verses, are the gifts of God to the spiritual warrior, whereby he is prepared for the contest, after the example of...
Read full commentary →