Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary < PSALM 13
Ps 13:1-6. On title, see [577]Introduction. The Psalmist, mourning God's absence and the triumph of his enemies, prays for relief before he is totally destroyed, and is encouraged to hope his trust will not be in vain. 1. The forms of expression and figure here used are frequent (compare Ps 9:12, 18; 10:11, 12). How long … for ever—Shall it be for ever? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me? 2. The counsels or devices of his heart afford no relief.
Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; 3. lighten mine eyes—dim with weakness, denoting approaching death (compare 1Sa 14:27-29; Ps 6:7; 38:10).
Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved. 4. rejoice—literally, "shout as in triumph."
I am moved—cast down from a firm position (Ps 10:6). But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. 5, 6. Trust is followed by rejoicing in the deliverance which God effects, and, instead of his enemy, he can lift the song of triumph.
I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me. |
