Matthew Henry on Psalms 119:58
David, having in the foregoing verse reflected upon his covenants with God, here reflects upon his prayers to God, and renews his petition. Observe, 1. What he prayed for. Having taken God for his portion, he entreated his favour, as one that knew he had forfeited it, was unworthy of it, and yet undone without it, but for ever happy if he could obtain it. We cannot demand God's favour as a debt, but must be humble suppliants for it, that God will not only be reconciled to us, but accept us and smile upon us. He prays, "Be merciful to me, in the forgiveness of what I have done amiss, and in giving me grace to do better for the future." 2. How he prayed - with his whole heart, as one that knew…
Read the whole note in the consoleJohn Gill on Psalms 119:58
I entreated thy favour with my whole heart,.... Or, "thy face" (m); to see it; or thy presence, to enjoy it; to have communion with God, and the light of his countenance; than which nothing is more desirable and delightful to a gracious man: as also to be remembered with the special favour of God, in which is life; to have his love shed abroad in the heart; to have large views of interest in it, and to be rooted and grounded therein; and this the psalmist entreated, not in an hypocritical manner, but with all sincerity, heartiness, and affection, having tasted that the Lord was gracious. Or, "made thy face sick" (n); wearied him with supplications, gave him no rest until he obtained his requ…
Read the whole note in the consoleJohn Calvin on Psalms 119:57-64
Psalm 119:57-64
ch 57. Thou art my portion, O Jehovah! I have said I will keep thy words. ch 58. I have earnestly besought thy face with my whole heart; have mercy upon me according to thy word. ch 59. I thought upon my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. ch 60. I made haste, and did not delay to keep thy commandments. ch 61. The cords of the wicked have caught hold of me; [420] but I did not forget thy law. ch 62. I will rise at midnight to praise thee for thy righteous judgments. ch 63. I am a companion to all those who fear thee, and who keep thy precepts. ch 64. O Jehovah! the earth is full of thy mercy; teach me thy statutes.
57. Thou art my portion, O Jehovah! The meaning…
