And he sent out his arrows and scattered them; he flashed forth lightnings and routed them.
David came to the throne through almost insurmountable trials, and foreign enemies harassed him even into old age. Rather than boast of his own victories, he exalts God as the true author of them, showing that his reign prefigures Christ's kingdom, one that will triumph over all resistance by the Father's incomprehensible power.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 18:1-50
Poetry itself has no jewel brighter than these verses that follow: sorrow, the cry, God's descent, the rescue of the afflicted set to music worthy of heaven's harps. Christ our Saviour is the chief subject here, and every line finds its deepest meaning in Him.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 18:4
The lightnings were darted forth as forked arrows upon the hosts of the foe, and speedily "scattered them." Boastful sinners prove to be great cowards when Jehovah enters the lists with them. They despise his words, and are very tongue-valiant, but when it comes to blows they fly apace. The glittering flames, and the fierce bolts of fire "discomfited them." God is never at a loss for weapons.