As in the former narrative section ( Psalms 18:4-24 ) David seems to have had his earlier troubles in mind, so, in the present one, his troubles since he entered upon the kingdom seem especially to engage his thoughts. These consisted chiefly of wars with foreign enemies, in which, while he incurred many dangers, he was, upon the whole, eminently successful. read more
As for God, his way is perfect (comp. Deuteronomy 32:4 , "His work is perfect, for all his ways are judgment"). What God does, he does effectually; he does not have recourse to half-measures. The word of the Lord is tried ; i.e. the promises of God are sure, they have been tested, and tried as by fire, and will never fail. He is a Buckler to all those that trust in him (comp. Psalms 18:2 ). read more
For who is God save the Lord (see Exodus 20:3 ; Deuteronomy 32:39 ). As the one and only God, absolute confidence may be placed in Jehovah, who is able to protect and preserve to the uttermost all who serve him . Or who is a Rock save our God? (comp. Psalms 18:2 ; and see also Deuteronomy 32:4 , Deuteronomy 32:18 , Deuteronomy 32:30 , Deuteronomy 32:31 ; and Psalms 61:2 ). read more
As for God - The declaration in this verse is suggested by the facts narrated in the previous verses. The contemplation of those facts leads the thoughts of the author of the psalm up to the Great Source of all these blessings, and to these general reflections on his character. “As for God,” that is, in respect to that Great Being, who has delivered me, his ways are all perfect; his word is tried; he is a shield to all those who trust in him.His way is perfect - That is, his doings are perfect;... read more
For who is God save the Lord? - Who is God except Yahweh? The idea is, that no other being has evinced the power, the wisdom, and the goodness which properly belong to the true God; or, that the things which are implied in the true nature of God are found in no other being.Or who is a rock save our God? - See Psalms 18:2. There is no one who can furnish such safety or defense; no one under whose protection we can be secure in danger. Compare Deuteronomy 32:31. read more
Psalms 18:28-31. Thou wilt light, or, thou dost light, or, hast lighted, my candle That is, given me safety, and comfort, and glory, and posterity also: all which particulars are often signified by a candle, or a light. Thou wilt or dost advance me to honour, increase my prosperity, and make me continually joyful by thy favour. Nothing was more usual among the oriental writers than representing any person, or family, by a lamp enlightening the whole house, 1 Kings 11:36; 1 Kings... read more
Psalms 18:0 David’s song of victoryThe outpouring of praise recorded in Psalms 18:0 is applicable to many of David’s experiences. It was probably put into its present form after David reached the height of his power as king. He had conquered all his enemies and now controlled all the country from Egypt to the Euphrates (2 Samuel 8:1-18). The psalm is also recorded in 2 Samuel 22:0.David opens by declaring his love for God (1) and thanking God for hearing his prayers and saving him from death at... read more
GOD. Hebrew = the El. App-4 . word = sayings, as in Psalms 12:6 (feminine plural); Psalms 19:14 (masculine plural) (not Psalms 18:4 ); Psalms 119:11 (see note there), &c. tried = refined. Compare Psalms 12:6 . trust in = flee for refuge to. Hebrew. hasah. App-69 . read more
GOD. Hebrew Eloah. App-4 . rock. Hebrew. zur. See notes on Exodus 17:6 ; Exodus 32:13 . save = except. read more
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The Pulpit Commentary - Psalms 18:1-50
The retrospect of a life: a sermon for the close of the year. "In this magnificent hymn the royal poet sketches in a few grand outlines the history of his life. By God's help he had subdued every enemy, and now, in middle life, looking back with devout thankfulness on the past, he sings this great song of praise to the God of his life." Divisions of the psalm: 1 . The introduction, setting forth all that Jehovah is to David ( Psalms 18:1-3 ). 2 . The record of David's sufferings... read more