Psalm 54
Introduction
Verse 1
By thy name, i. e. by thy own strength, as the next words explain it, because I have no other refuge. Or, for thy name, i.e. for thy own glory, which is concerned in my deliverance. Judge me, i.e. judge or give sentence for me, or plead my cause, as this phrase is oft taken, as we have seen.
Verse 3
Strangers; the Ziphites, whom, though Israelites, he calls strangers, in regard of their barbarous and perfidious disposition and carriage towards him, by which they showed themselves to be estranged from God, as the wicked are said to be, Ps.
Verse 4
Behold; consider it, and see the vanity of all your wicked practices against me. The Lord is with them that uphold my soul; he fights for them, and on my behalf, and therefore against all mine enemies.
Verse 5
In thy truth; or, for or according to thy truth; whereby thou art engaged to fulfil thy promises made to me, and thy threatenings denounced against thine and mine implacable enemies.
Verse 6
Freely sacrifice; not by constraint, as many do, because they are obliged to it, and cannot neglect it without shame and inconvenience to themselves; but with a willing and cheerful mind, which thou lovest in and above all sacrifices.
Verse 7
He speaks of it as a thing already done, either to express his assurance of it, or because this Psalm was made after it was done. His desire; or, thy vengeance; which may be understood out of Ps. 54:5. But there is no necessity of any supplement.
Ps. 54 Of which he speaks 1 Sam. 23:0, when they did seek to betray him a second time. The psalmist, complaining of his oppressors, prayeth forGod’s protection; and for the righteous punishment of his enemies, Ps. 54:1–3. Placing his hope in God’s help, Ps.