Psalms 4

Psalms 4:1

THE title, [to the] the Italian, given to, published by David, for the use of the Church, though it was penned before upon some particular occasion: [chiefe Musician] it appeares by firstChron. 15. 17. that even from time out of minde, there had been amongst the ministers, and officers of the Church sacred musicians, under certaine heads or masters, the originall whereof is unknown, the Law making no mention thereof. Afterwards David having invented new instruments, and illustrated the art of Musick, Amos 6:5. did also appoint singers in the Temple: and divided them into three companies, and Asaph was chosen by him to sing those things which hee composed, 1 Chron. 25. 1. 2. whereupon it is likely that it is he is meant in these titles of Psalmes: [on Neginoth] that is to say, upon stringed instruments; the meaning may be that this Psalme was sung to such kinde of instruments, or that it was sent to the chiefe of the musicians which played upon such instruments. Every generall sort of instruments having it severall company of musicians, 1 Chron. 15, 19. 20. 21. Of my righteousnesse] witnesse, judge, and defender of mine innocency, and right.

Psalms 4:2

Sonnes of men] the Italian, you chiefe men, it seemeth he directeth his speeches to the officers of the Kingdome, and to the heads of the eleven tribes, who after the death of Saul, did for a long time refuse to accept of David to be their King, 2 Samuel 2:1-32. c. and 3. 1 [my glory] will ye contemne and seek to beat down my royall dignity which God hath conferred upon mee, and of which I already begin to have possession in the tribe of Iudah? [vanity] namely vaine, and unprofitable designes, to maintaine your greatnesses, under the pretence of the house of Saul, opposing mee who am your lawfull King: [seeke after] frame deceitfull plots, and false conspiracies to withstand mee.

Psalms 4:3

That is godly] namely mee David whom hee hath endowed with true piety, to re-establish his true service, which is spoken in opposition of Saul, who was reproved; and of his abominable race, see Psalms 89:20.

Psalms 4:4

Commune] consider within your selves the great error which you commit, and examine what your duty is: [and be still] forbear plotting and taking councell together Heb. hold your peaces, or be silent.

Psalms 4:5

Offer the] dispose your selves, by submiting to my government, to have part in Gods true service, in his Church, before his arke, in the holy place according to Gods order; that you may have certain assurance of his grace and blessing; which hath not been done in Sauls time, 1 Chronicles 13:3. [of righteousnesse] pure and right ones according to Gods command, Psal.51. 19.

Psalms 4:6

Lift thou up] cause us to feel the effects of thy grace at full, even as the son shooteth out his beams at full mid. day.