Ps. 61 THE ARGUMENT The occasion of this Psalm was some great distress of David’s, either by Saul or by Absalom, though it might be composed some time after it was past. David, in great danger, fleeth to God for deliverance, upon experience of his former love, Ps.

Of the earth; or rather, of the land; to which David was driven by the tyranny of his enemies. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I; convey me into some high and secure fortress, which I could not reach without thy succour, and where mine enemies cannot come at me.

I shall, I doubt not, be restored to the tabernacle from which I am now banished, and, according to the desire of my heart, worship and enjoy thee there all my days. In the mean time, whilst I am in danger and trouble, I will cast myself upon thy protection with full confidence.

My vows; my fervent prayers, attended with many vows and promises, as was usual, especially in cases of great danger or difficulty, Gen. 28:20, Judg. 11:30–31.

The king’s life, i.e. my life. He calls himself king, either, 1. Because he was actually king, though Absalom usurped the throne; or, 2. Because he was designed and anointed to be king; and by calling himself king, he supports himself under his present straits, and declares his confidence in God’s…

He shall abide, or sit, to wit, in the throne, Jer. 13:13. Before God; living and ruling as in God’s presence, and serving God with his royal power, and worshipping him in his tabernacle. Prepare, or order, or appoint, as this word signifies, Jonah 1:17, Jonah 4:6. Mercy and truth; either, 1.

That so I may pay unto thee those services and sacrifices which I vowed to thee when I was in trouble.