Psalm 7:8

EXPOSITION

Verse 8. If I am not mistaken, David has now seen in the eye of his mind the Lord ascending to his judgment seat, and beholding him seated there in royal state, he draws near to him to urge his suit anew. In the last two verses he besought Jehovah to arise, and now that he is arisen, he prepares to mingle with "the congregation of the people" who compass the Lord about. The royal heralds proclaim the opening of the court with the solemn words,

The Lord shall judge the people. Our petitioner rises at once, and cries with earnestness and humility,

Judge me, O Lord, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me. His hand is on an honest heart, and his cry is to a righteous Judge.

EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS

Verse 8. Believers! let not the terror of that day dispirit you when you meditate upon it; let those who have slighted the Judge, and continue enemies to him and the way of holiness, droop and hang down their heads when they think of his coming; but lift ye up your heads with joy, for the last day will be your best day. The Judge is your Head and Husband, your Redeemer, and your Advocate. Ye must appear before the judgment seat; but ye shall not come into condemnation. His coming will not be against you, but for you. It is otherwise with unbelievers, a neglected Saviour will be a severe Judge. Thomas Boston, 1676-1732.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 8. The character of the Judge before whom we all must stand.