The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.
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
"The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness." Viewing this psalm as prophetical of the Messiah, these strongly-expressed claims to righteousness are readily understood, for his garments were as white as snow; but considered as the language of David they have perplexed many. Yet the case is clear, and if the words be not strained beyond their original intention, no difficulty need occur.
When God visibly took David's part, He both cleared his innocence before men and confirmed the testimony of his own conscience. A wicked departure from God is one done willfully and without recovery; but those who stumble yet repent and press forward have not truly forsaken Him.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 18:20-28