Psalms 4:1

PSALM IV

David prays to be heard, 1;

expostulates with the ungodly, 2;

exhorts them to turn to God, and make their peace with him, 3-5;

shows the vain pursuits of men in search of happiness, which he

asserts exists only in the approbation of God, 6, 7;

commends himself to the Lord, and then quietly takes his repose,

8.

NOTES ON PSALM IV

This Psalm seems to have been composed on the same occasion with the preceding, viz., Absalom's rebellion. It appears to have been an evening hymn, sung by David and his company previously to their going to rest. It is inscribed to the chief Musician upon Neginoth, למנצח בנגינות lamnatstseach binginoth. Probably the first word comes from נצח natsach, to be over, or preside; and may refer to the precentor in the choir. Some suppose that it refers to the Lord Jesus, who is the Supreme Governor, or victorious Person; the Giver of victory. Neginoth seems to come from נגן nagan, to strike; and probably may signify some such instruments as the cymbal, drum, c., and stringed instruments in general. But there is no certainty in these things. What they mean, or what they were, is known to no man.

Verse Psalms 4:1. Hear me when I call] No man has a right to expect God to hear him if he do not call. Indeed, how shall he be heard if he speak not? There are multitudes who expect the blessings of God as confidently as if they had prayed for them most fervently and yet such people pray not at all!

God of my righteousness] Whatever pardon, peace, holiness, or truth I possess, has come entirely from thyself. Thou art the God of my salvation, as thou art the God of my life.

Thou hast enlarged me] I was in prison; and thou hast brought me forth abroad. Have mercy on me-continue to act in the same way. I shall always need thy help; I shall never deserve to have it; let me have it in the way of mere mercy, as thou hast hitherto done.