02.034. Psalm 34

Psalms 34:1-22 A Psalm of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. This psalm was composed by David, when Achish, or Abimelech, king of Gath, drove him from his court as an idiot or madman, 1 Samuel 21:10-15. Here are, (1.) David’s high praises to God, for the favours himself and others had received, Psalms 34:1-6. (2.) His warm invitations and strong encouragements to others to seek after and fear the Lord, and to trust in him for all necessary supplies, in time, or in eternity, Psalms 34:7-10. (3.) Familiar advice to children and others to eschew every thing sinful, and make conscience of known duty, both towards God and man, as a means of present and future happiness, Psalms 34:11-14. (4.) A representation of the misery of the wicked, in having God against them as an avenging enemy, and in having ruin before them as the just reward of their sins; and of the happiness of the godly, in having God near to them in every case, ready to hear their requests, to protect them amidst dangers, and to deliver them from enemies and trouble, Psalms 34:15-22.

While I sing, let my heart be warmed with my subject. Come my soul, and walk in this light, in these joys of the Lord: Come, taste and see that he is good; extol his kindness, and trust him in all things, and on every occasion.