Bible Commentaries

Psalm 63:1-11. The historical occasion referred to by the title was probably during Absalom‘s rebellion (compare 2 Samuel 15:23, 2 Samuel 15:28; 2 Samuel 16:2). David expresses an earnest desire for God‘s favor, and a confident expectation of realizing it in his deliverance and the ruin of his enemies.

early … seek thee — earnestly (Isaiah 26:9). The figurative terms -

dry and thirsty — literally, “weary,” denoting moral destitution, suited his outward circumstances.

soul — and - flesh — the whole man (Psalm 16:9, Psalm 16:10).

The special object of desire was God‘s perfections as displayed in his worship (Psalm 27:4).

Experiencing God‘s mercy, which exceeds all the blessings of life, his lips will be opened for his praise (Psalm 51:15).

Thus — literally, “Truly.”

will I bless — praise Thee (Psalm 34:1).

lift up my hands — in worship (compare Psalm 28:2).

in thy name — in praise of Thy perfections.

Full spiritual blessings satisfy his desires, and acts of praise fill his thoughts and time.

night — as well as day. Past favors assure him of future, and hence he presses earnestly near to God, whose power sustains him (Psalm 17:8; Psalm 60:5).

to destroy it — or literally, “to ruin,” or, “for ruin”; that is, such as seek to injure me (are) for ruin, appointed to it (compare Psalm 35:8).

shall go … earth — into the grave, or, to death; as their bodies are represented as a portion for -

foxes — literally, “jackals.”

the king — that is, David himself, and all who reverence God, “shall share a glorious part,” while treacherous foes shall be for ever silenced (Psalm 62:4).