Psalms 143

Psalms 143:1-12 . In structure and style, like the preceding (Psalms 104-142), this Psalm is clearly evinced to be David's. It is a prayer for pardon, and for relief from enemies; afflictions, as usual, producing confession and penitence.

1. in thy faithfulness . . . and . . . righteousness--or, God's regard to the claims which He has permitted His people to make in His covenant.

2. enter . . . judgment--deal not in strict justice.
shall no . . . justified--or, "is no man justified," or "innocent" ( Job 14:3 , Romans 3:20 ).

3, 4. The exciting reason for his prayer--his afflictions--led to confession as just made: he now makes the complaint.
as those that have been long dead--deprived of life's comforts (compare Psalms 40:15 , 88:3-6 ).

5, 6. The distress is aggravated by the contrast of former comfort ( Psalms 22:3-5 ), for whose return he longs.
a thirsty land--which needs rain, as did his spirit God's gracious visits ( Psalms 28:1 , 89:17 ).

7. spirit faileth--is exhausted.

8. (Compare Psalms 25:1-4 , 59:16 ).
the way . . . walk--that is, the way of safety and righteousness ( Psalms 142:3-6 ).

9. (Compare Psalms 31:15-20 ).

10. (Compare Psalms 5:8 , 27:11 ).
land of uprightness--literally, "an even land" ( Psalms 26:12 ).

11. (Compare Psalms 23:3 , 119:156 ).

12. God's mercy to His people is often wrath to His and their enemies (compare Psalms 31:17 ).
thy servant--as chosen to be such, entitled to divine regard.