Psalms 143:1-12

This is the last of the penitential psalms, and is uniformly ascribed to David. It was composed during a period of exile. The LXX and the Vulgate, “on the rebellion of Absalom.”

Psalms 143:10. Thy Spirit is good. The LXX read, “Let thy good Spirit lead me into the land of uprightness.”

REFLECTIONS.

This psalm was composed also in exile, as appears from his prayer to be led into the land of uprightness: Psalms 143:10. These litanies, or pleadings with heaven, are glowing, ardent, and worthy of special notice. David was long pursued by Saul, and sometimes his spirit was overwhelmed with grief. By long pressure the nerves of the understanding become relaxed and inactive; but God revives his saints again.

He prays to be guided in the way in which he ought to walk, for it is not in man to direct his steps. Above all, the psalmist asks for a good frame of mind, that God would quicken and revive his soul for his name's sake.