When the wicked came upon me to devour my flesh, my enemies and foes stumbled and fell.
David does not simply declare God's mercy in hindsight; he fortifies himself against doubt by rehearsing what he knows God to be. The saints must wrestle with themselves, driving back the flesh's doubts, so they can pray with speed and cheer. This is how a man recovers from tempest and shouts triumph.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 27:1-14
When wicked men hate us, we should take it as a sign of hope; their hatred is better than their love. David was surrounded by fierce enemies who came to devour him whole, yet they stumbled and fell, thrown down by God's own breath. This is the power of faith: rising from your knees, you throw your foes upon their faces.
AI summary
God is light to show the way in doubt and comfort the sorrowful heart. He is the strength of life itself, not merely its protector. If Omnipotence guards him, he has no cause to fear; if he knows it, he has no disposition to fear. Faith alone bears such fortitude against enemies.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 27:1-6