Verse 1

Psalm 92:1-15. A Psalm-song - (see on Psalm 30:1, title). The theme: God should be praised for His righteous judgments on the wicked and His care and defense of His people. Such a topic, at all times proper, is specially so for the reflections of the Sabbath day.

sing  …  name — celebrate Thy perfections.

Verse 2

every night — diligently and constantly (Psalm 42:8).

loving kindness — literally, “mercy.”

faithfulness — in fulfilling promises (Psalm 89:14).

Verse 3

In such a work all proper aid must be used.

with a  …  sound — or, on Higgaion (see on Psalm 9:16), perhaps an instrument of that name, from its sound resembling the muttered sound of meditation, as expressed also by the word. This is joined with the harp.

Verse 4

thy work — that is, of providence (Psalm 90:16, Psalm 90:17).

Verse 5

works — correspond to deep or vast thoughts (Psalm 40:5; Romans 11:23).

Verse 6

A brutish man knoweth not — that is, God‘s works, so the Psalmist describes himself (Psalm 73:22) when amazed by the prosperity of the wicked, now understood and explained.

Verse 8

This he does in part, by contrasting their ruin with God‘s exaltation and eternity.

most high — as occupying the highest place in heaven (Psalm 7:7; Psalm 18:16).

Verse 9-10

A further contrast with the wicked, in the lot of the righteous, safety and triumph.

Verse 10

exalt — is to increase power (Psalm 75:5).

anointed  …  fresh — or, “new”

oil — (Psalm 23:5) a figure for refreshment (compare Luke 7:46). Such use of oil is still common in the East.

Verse 11

[and]  …  hear my desire — or, literally, “look on” my enemies and hear of the wicked (compare Psalm 27:11; Psalm 54:7) - that is, I shall be gratified by their fall.

Verses 12-14

The vigorous growth, longevity, utility, fragrance, and beauty of these noble trees, set forth the life, character, and destiny of the pious;

Verse 15

and they thus declare God‘s glory as their strong and righteous ruler.