Bible Commentaries
JFB Critical & Explanatory on the Whole Bible
Psalms 143
Psalm 143:1-12. In structure and style, like the preceding (Psalms 104-142), this Psalm is clearly evinced to be David‘s. It is a prayer for pardon, and for relief from enemies; afflictions, as usual, producing confession and penitence.
in thy faithfulness … and … righteousness — or, God‘s regard to the claims which He has permitted His people to make in His covenant.
judgment — deal not in strict justice.
shall no … justified — or, “is no man justified,” or “innocent” (Job 14:3; Romans 3:20).
The exciting reason for his prayer - his afflictions - led to confession as just made: he now makes the complaint.
as those that have been long dead — deprived of life‘s comforts (compare Psalm 40:15; Psalm 88:3-6).
The distress is aggravated by the contrast of former comfort (Psalm 22:3-5), for whose return he longs.
a thirsty land — which needs rain, as did his spirit God‘s gracious visits (Psalm 28:1; Psalm 89:17).
(Compare Psalm 25:1-4; Psalm 59:16).
the way … walk — that is, the way of safety and righteousness (Psalm 142:3-6).
(Compare Psalm 5:8; Psalm 27:11).
land of uprightness — literally, “an even land” (Psalm 26:12).
God‘s mercy to His people is often wrath to His and their enemies (compare Psalm 31:17).
thy servant — as chosen to be such, entitled to divine regard.
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