Verse 1

CONTENTS

It should seem from several expressions in this Psalm, that it was written upon some occasion of deliverance from trouble; for which the sacred writer blesseth God; ascribing all the glory to him.

A Song of Degrees of David.

Verses 1-5

What situation soever it was the church refers to (for it is not particularly noticed), it is equally instructive to see how faith refers the whole of her deliverance to the Lord. And very sweet it is, in any, and every trial and victory, to trace the divine hand leading us through, and bringing us out of all. But, Reader, be the mercy here alluded to what it may, you and I may truly say, respecting redemption-work, "If Jesus had not been on our side, when hell was up in arms against us, and our own corrupt passions joined in the dreadful conflict, we must have been swallowed up, and lost forever." Precious Jesus! well was it for us, that many waters could not quench thy love, neither all the floods drown it! Song of Solomon 8:7.

Verses 6-8

Reader! shall we not join this song, and evermore take up the same confidence: "Blessed, forever blessed be God for Jesus Christ! And henceforth our help, and hope, and strength, shall only be in him. He that hath delivered, doth deliver, and in whom we trust he will yet deliver, " 2 Corinthians 1:10. Yes, blessed Jesus! henceforth may I find grace to leave all with thee. My soul, the church, every believer, all, all are and must be safe in thy eternal and almighty hands! Like the church of old, I will sing, and sing aloud, Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and song, he also is become my salvation, Isaiah 12:2.

Verse 8

REFLECTIONS

BLESSED Deliverer of thy people! thou art our salvation, and the salvation of God our Father to the ends of the earth. And what thy Father appointed, thou hast accomplished: thy love, and thy mercy, have been the glorious procuring cause of all thy Church's deliverance, and of all their joy. Let it please thee then, most gracious Saviour, to be our help and confidence forever. Let the church, which thou hast purchased with thy blood, be still dear to thee. Let the souls of thy people, whom thou hast justified with thy righteousness, be still thy Jewels. And while we cry out with holy joy, Blessed be the Lord, who remembered us in our low estate; may we always be discovering new causes to close the holy song: for his mercy endureth forever. Our soul is escaped from the beast of prey, and the fowler's net; and therefore Jesus shall be our glory, and we will still say, Thanks be to God, who always causeth us to triumph in Christ.