Bible Commentary

Psalms 119:121-122

Psalms 119:121-122

Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible · Matthew Henry (1662–1714) · Public Domain

David here appeals to God, 1. As his witness that he had not done

wrong; he could truly say, "I have done judgment and justice, that is,

I have made conscience of rendering to all their due, and have not by

force or fraud hindered any of their right." Take him as a king, he

executed judgment and justice to all his people, 2 Sam. viii. 15. Take

him in a private capacity, he could appeal to Saul himself that there

was no evil or transgression in his hand, 1 Sam. xxiv. 11. Note,

Honesty is the best policy and will be our rejoicing in the day of

evil. 2. As his Judge, that he might not be wronged. Having done

justice for others that were oppressed, he begs that God would do him

justice and avenge him of his adversaries: "Be surety for thy servant,

for good; undertake for me against those that would run me down and

ruin me." He is sensible that he cannot make his part good himself, and

therefore begs that God would appear for him. Christ is our surety with

God; and, if he be so, Providence shall be our surety against all the

world. Who or what shall harm us if God's power and goodness be engaged

for our protection and rescue? He does not prescribe to God what he

should do for him; only let it be for good, in such way and manner as

Infinite Wisdom sees best; "only let me not be left to my oppressors."

Though David had done judgment and justice, yet he had many enemies;

but, having God for his friend, he hoped they should not have their

will against him; and in that hope he prayed again, Let not the proud

oppress me. David, one of the best of men, was oppressed by the proud,

whom God beholds afar off; the condition therefore of the persecuted is

better than that of the persecutors, and will appear so at last.

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