Psalm 69:19

EXPOSITION

Here we have a sad recapitulation of sorrows, with more especial reference to the persons concerned in their infliction.

Verse 19. Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and my dishonour. It is no novelty or secret, it has been long continued; thou, O God, hast seen it; and for thee to see the innocent suffer is an assurance of help. Here are three words piled up to express the Redeemer's keen sense of the contempt poured upon him; and his assurance that every form of malicious despite was observed of the Lord.

Mine adversaries are all before thee. The whole lewd and loud company is now present to thine eye: Judas and his treachery; Herod and his cunning; Caiaphas and his counsel; Pilate and his vacillation; Jews, priests, people, rulers, all, thou seest and wilt judge.

EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS

Verse 19. Thou hast known my reproach, etc. It is a great deal of comfort that God does take notice of our reproaches; this was the comfort of the psalmist. If a man suffer reproach, and disgrace, and trouble for his friends, while he is abroad from them; O, says he, did my friends know what I suffer, and suffer for them, it would comfort me: if it be comfort to be known, much more when they shall be accounted their own. Christ is acquainted with all the sufferings of every member; and, therefore, do not say, I am a poor creature; who takes notice of my sufferings? Heaven takes notice of your sufferings; Christ takes notice of them better than yourselves. Jeremiah Burroughs.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 19.

1. God knows what his people suffer; how much, how long,
   from whom, for what.
   
2. His people should find consolation in this knowledge.
   1. That trial is permitted by him.
   2. That it is apportioned by him.
   3. That it has its design from him.
   4. That when the design is accomplished, it will be removed by him. G. R.