‏ Psalms 143

* David complains of his enemies and distresses. (1-6) He prays

for comfort, guidance, and deliverance. (7-12)1-6 We have no righteousness of our own to plead, therefore

must plead God's righteousness, and the word of promise which he

has freely given us, and caused us to hope in. David, before he

prays for the removal of his trouble, prays for the pardon of

his sin, and depends upon mercy alone for it. He bemoans the

weight upon his mind from outward troubles. But he looks back,

and remembers God's former appearance for his afflicted people,

and for him in particular. He looks round, and notices the works

of God. The more we consider the power of God, the less we shall

fear the face or force of man. He looks up with earnest desires

towards God and his favour. This is the best course we can take,

when our spirits are overwhelmed. The believer will not forget,

that in his best actions he is a sinner. Meditation and prayer

will recover us from distresses; and then the mourning soul

strives to return to the Lord as the infant stretches out its

hands to the indulgent mother, and thirsts for his consolations

as the parched ground for refreshing rain. 7-12 David prays that God would be well pleased with him, and

let him know that he was so. He pleads the wretchedness of his

case, if God withdrew from him. But the night of distress and

discouragement shall end in a morning of consolation and praise.

He prays that he might be enlightened with the knowledge of

God's will; and this is the first work of the Spirit. A good man

does not ask the way in which is the most pleasant walking, but

what is the right way. Not only show me what thy will is, but

teach me how to do it. Those who have the Lord for their God,

have his Spirit for their Guide; they are led by the Spirit. He

prays that he might be enlivened to do God's will. But we should

especially seek the destruction of our sins, our worst enemies,

that we may be devotedly God's servants