Psalm 25:9

Verse 9. He will guide the poor in judgment. Never will this docility be found in any man, until the heart, which is naturally elated and filled with pride, has been humbled and subdued. As the Hebrew word denotes the poor or afflicted, and is employed in a metaphorical sense, to denote the meek and humble, it is probable that David, under this term, includes the afflictions which serve to restrain and subdue the frowardness of the flesh, as well as the grace of humility itself; as if he had said, When God has first humbled them, then he kindly stretches forth his hand to them, and leads and guides them throughout the whole course of their life. John Calvin.

Verse 9. The meek, etc. Pride and anger have no place in the school of Christ. The Master himself is "meek and lowly of heart;" much more, surely, ought the scholars to be so. He who hath no sense of his ignorance, can have no desire, or capability of knowledge, human or divine. George Horne.

Verse 9. (last clause). The Lord will teach the humble his secrets, he will not teach proud scholars. Thomas Goodwin.

Verse 9. (last clause). Such as lie at his feet and say, "Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth," such whose hearts are supple and soluble, tractable, and teachable, so that a little child may lead them. Isa 11:6. Austin was such an one. Saith he, "I am here an old man ready to learn of a young man, my coadjutor in the ministry, who hath scarce been one year in the service." John Trapp.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

Verse 9. The meek. Who are they? What are their privileges? How to be like them?

Verse 9. (first clause). Moral purity needful to a well balanced judgment.