Psalms 4:4

4. David now turns from the leading spirits of the rebellion to those who are yet loyal in heart, but bewildered and doubtful as to what should be done.

Stand in awe, and sin not The words “stand in awe” are simply a translation of the imperative form of the verb רגז , ( rahgaz,) which signifies to be troubled, disquieted, agitated, from any cause, whether of anger, fear, grief, or even joy: (for the last see Jeremiah 33:9: “They shall fear and tremble [be agitated ] for all the goodness,” etc.) The kingdom was now in commotion, and most minds were filled with doubt, perplexity, and fear. In this state the king calmly admonishes, “Sin not:” be not moved to rash or sinful acts, while you partake of the common disquietude and alarm. The Septuagint reads, “Be ye angry, and sin not,” which the apostle copies verbatim, (Ephesians 4:26;) a clear instance, it would seem, where anger is not used to express a malignant or vengeful passion, but, by metonomy, signifies the cause or occasion of such passion, namely, high provocation, or agitation of mind under a deep sense of injury. It is the danger of abiding in this disquieted state of mind, not the sinfulness of it per se, which is the object of the admonition both of the psalmist and the apostle. And so, “Let not the sun go down upon your wrath,” is a reiterated warning not to delay escape from so imminent spiritual danger.

Commune with your own heart Literally, speak in your heart; a beautiful idea of meditation. The selah, pause, comes in here and at Psalms 4:2 with emphasis.