Though an army encamps around me, my heart will not fear; though a war breaks out against me, I will keep my trust.
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
Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear. Before the actual conflict, while as yet the battle is untried, the warrior's heart, being held in suspense, is very liable to become fluttered. The encamping host often inspires greater dread than the same host in actual affray.
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