02.116. Psalm 116

Psalms 116:1-19 This is a psalm of thanksgiving, somewhat similar to Psalms 18:1-50, Psalms 30:1-12, Psalms 40:1-17, and Psalms 103:1-22; and represents, (1.) The psalmist’s great distress and danger, which had almost driven him to despair, Psalms 116:3, Psalms 116:10-11. (2.) The application he made to God by prayer, for relief; and his experience of God’s gracious kindness, in granting his requests, in hearing, pitying, and delivering him, Psalms 116:1-2, Psalms 116:4-6, Psalms 116:8. (3.) His sincere and hearty resolutions, to make a grateful acknowledgment of God’s kindness; by loving him, Psalms 116:1; continuing to call on him and receive from him, Psalms 116:2, Psalms 116:13, Psalms 116:17; resting in him, Psalms 116:7; walking before him as his devoted servant, Psalms 116:9, Psalms 116:16; public confession of God’s tender regard to him, Psalms 116:12, Psalms 116:15; and sincere and public paying of his vows to God, Psalms 116:10-19.

While I sing, let me think, as before God, what of these blessings I have experienced ­ what of these duties I have earnestly practised. If God hath redeemed me from the broken law; from the lowest hell; from the mouth of the infernal lion; and from the power of my corrupt lusts: then let my soul, and all that is within me, be stirred up to bless his holy name; and let me never lose the heart-animating impressions of his benefits.