Psalms 143 A Prayer for Deliverance

In structure and style, like the preceding (psalms 104-142), this psalm is clearly evinced to be David's. It is a prayer for pardon, and for relief from enemies; Afflictions, as usual, producing confession and penitence

1

in thy faithfulness... and... righteousness — or, God's regard to the claims which He has permitted His people to make in His covenant.

2

enter... judgment — deal not in strict justice. shall no... justified — or, "is no man justified," or "innocent" (Job 14:3; Ro 3:20).

3,4

The exciting reason for his prayer — his afflictions — led to confession as just made: he now makes the complaint. as those that have been long dead — deprived of life's comforts (compare Ps 40:15; 88:3-6).

5,6

The distress is aggravated by the contrast of former comfort (Ps 22:3-5), for whose return he longs. a thirsty land — which needs rain, as did his spirit God's gracious visits (Ps 28:1; 89:17).

7

spirit faileth — is exhausted.

8

(Compare Ps 25:1-4; 59:16). the way... walk — that is, the way of safety and righteousness (Ps 142:3-6).

9

(Compare Ps 31:15-20).

10

(Compare Ps 5:8; 27:11). land of uprightness — literally, "an even land" (Ps 26:12).

11

(Compare Ps 23:3; 119:156).

12

God's mercy to His people is often wrath to His and their enemies (compare Ps 31:17). thy servant — as chosen to be such, entitled to divine regard.