Hide not your face from me. Turn not your servant away in anger, O you who have been my help. Cast me not off; forsake me not, O God of my salvation!
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
Hide not thy face far from me. The word "far" is not in the original, and is a very superfluous addition of the translators, since even the least hiding of the Lord's face is a great affliction to a believer. The command to seek the Lord's face would be a painful one if the Lord, by withdrawing himself, rendered it impossible for the seeker to meet with him.
David does not presume to enter the King's presence uncalled; he fastens his thoughts on God's invitation to the throne of grace and reverently touches the golden scepter held out to him. True worship is seeking the face of God for Himself alone, making His favor our chief good, nothing less will satisfy.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 27:7-14