Verse 1

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.

Verse 2

judgment — deal not in strict justice.

shall no  …  justified — or, “is no man justified,” or “innocent” (Job 14:3; Romans 3:20).

Verse 3-4

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).

Verse 5-6

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).

Verse 7

spirit faileth — is exhausted.

Verse 8

(Compare Psalm 25:1-4; Psalm 59:16).

the way  …  walk — that is, the way of safety and righteousness (Psalm 142:3-6).

Verse 9

(Compare Psalm 31:15-20).

Verse 10

(Compare Psalm 5:8; Psalm 27:11).

land of uprightness — literally, “an even land” (Psalm 26:12).

Verse 11

(Compare Psalm 23:3; Psalm 119:156).

Verse 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.