Psalm 18:42

EXPOSITION

Verse 42. The defeat of the nations who fought with King David was so utter and complete that they were like powders pounded in a mortar; their power was broken into fragments and they became as weak as dust before the wind, and as mean as the mire of the roads. Thus powerless and base are the enemies of God now become through the victory of the Son of David upon the cross. Arise, O my soul, and meet thine enemies, for they have sustained a deadly blow, and will fall before thy bold advance.

"Hell and my sins resist my course, But hell and sin are vanquished foes
My Jesus nailed them to his cross, And sung the triumph when he rose."

EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS

Verse 42. I did cast them out as the dirt in the streets, or rather "of the streets." In the East, all household refuse and filth is cast forth into the streets, where all of it that is at all edible is soon cleared away by birds and dogs, and all that is not is speedily dried up by the sun. To cast forth any one, therefore, as the dirt of the streets, is a strong image of contempt and rejection. John Kitto.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 42. The sure overthrow, final shame, and ruin of evil.