Psalms 35:19

Wink with the eye— i.e. In derision of my misfortunes.

REFLECTIONS.—The cause of God and truth has hitherto been here more or less under the cross. We have,

1. David calling upon God to plead his cause, and vindicate his injured innocence. His enemies maligned and traduced him; not satisfied with plundering him of all, and driving him out as a vagabond in the earth, they thirsted for his precious blood. Note; (1.) The best of men have been often persecuted as the vilest criminals; and the most inoffensive and peaceable in the land, charged with the blackest designs of conspiracy and rebellion. (2.) When we have a good cause and a good conscience, it should make us the more easily put up with the revilings of men. (3.) God will one day visit for oppression and wrong; till then, let us possess our souls in patience.

2. He prays that God would inwardly support him, and outwardly manifest his power to the confusion of his enemies. [1.] He begs inward support, say unto my soul, I am thy salvation: all other trials would sit light upon him, while he possessed this consciousness of God's power and grace engaged for him. Note; When the conscience of the believer assures him of his part in the Almighty Saviour, then all is peace within, and he can defy the glittering sword without. [2.] He cries for God's appearing to protect him, and confound his enemies; not in the language of revenge, but under the spirit of prophesy, as what would surely come to pass. God's shield and buckler spread over him, and sword and spear lifted up against his persecutors, will not only save him, but confound them. Note; (1.) Though we may not indulge private resentment, nor wish evil to our worst enemies, we may safely pray for the deliverance of God's suffering people, and the confusion of the enemies of Christ and his church. (2.) The sinner's foot is in a slippery place, and through the darkness of his fallen mind he sees not the dreadful pit just before him.

3. He rejoices in the confidence that God would save him, and therefore ascribes to him the glory. All my bones, my soul and body, my whole man, shall say, Lord, who is like unto thee? so peerless in thy own excellencies, so condescending to thy poor people, so good to redeem, so great to deliver them from all their mighty adversaries. Note; (1.) They who make the Lord their strength, will find him their joy. (2.) If God be for us, no matter who are against us.