Jamieson, Fausset & Brown's Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 63

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown's verse-by-verse commentary on Psalms 63, from Commentary Critical and Explanatory. Read it alongside the full text of the chapter.

The historical occasion referred to by the title was probably during Absalom's rebellion (compare Sa2 15:23, Sa2 15:28; Sa2 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. (Psa 63:1-11)

early . . . seek thee--earnestly (Isa 26:9). The figurative terms--

dry and thirsty--literally, "weary," denoting moral destitution, suited his outward circumstances.

soul--and--flesh--the whole man (Psa 16:9-10).

Verse 2

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

Verse 3

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

Verse 4

Thus--literally, "Truly."

will I bless--praise Thee (Psa 34:1).

lift up my hands--in worship (compare Psa 28:2).

in thy name--in praise of Thy perfections.

Verse 5

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

Verses 6–8

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

Verse 9

those . . . 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 Psa 35:8).

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

Verse 10

foxes--literally, "jackals."

Verse 11

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

Next: Psalms Chapter 64