Psalm 7:4

EXPOSITION

Verse 3-5. See Psalms on "Psalms 7:3" for further information.

EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS

Verse 3-4. See Psalms on "Psalms 7:3" for further information.

Verse 4. Yea, I have delivered him that without cause is mine enemy. Meaning Saul, whose life he twice preserved, once in Engedi, and again when he slept on the plain. John Gill.

Verse 4. If I have rewarded evil unto him that was at peace with me. To do evil for good, is human corruption; to do good for good, is civil retribution; but to good for evil, is Christian perfection. Though this be not the grace of nature, yet it is the nature of grace. William Secker.

Verse 4. Then is grace victorious, and then hath a man a noble and brave spirit, not when he is overcome by evil (for that argues weakness), but when he can overcome evil. And it is God's way to shame the party that did the wrong, and to overcome him too; it is the best way to get the victory over him. When David had Saul at an advantage in the cave, and cut off the lap of his garment, and did forbear any act of revenge against him, Saul was melted, and said to David, "Thou art more righteous than I." 1 Samuel 24:17 . Though he had such a hostile mind against him, and chased and pursued him up and down, yet when David forbear revenge when it was in his power, it overcame him, and he falls weeping. Thomas Manton.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 4. The best revenge. Evil for good is devil like, evil for evil is beast like, good for good is man like, good for evil is God like.