Psalms 85

Psalms 85:9

9. — of thine anointed.] He prays for the king as the person in whom the prosperity of his country was enwrapped: he was the “shield” and protection of it under God. See Ps. lxxxix. 18, and xlvii. 9. Mudge.

Psalms 85:11

11. — a sun and shield:] A light, a glory, and defence. Bp. Wilson.

There cannot be a greater resemblance to the joys of heaven in any pleasure or happiness that we can enjoy in this world, than in that tranquillity of mind and conscience which naturally attends and accompanies our fervent devotions to God Almighty; when we have deposited all our wishes with Him, and submitted and resigned all our desires to Him. Nor can there be a more lively representation upon earth, of the court and company of heaven, than in the assemblies and congregations of religious and pious men pouring out their prayers, and celebrating the praises of their Creator and Redeemer. Lord Clarendon.

Psalm LXXXV. In celebrating the return of the Jews from the Babylonish captivity, the Psalmist is carried by a prophetick impulse to foretel a much greater deliverance by the coming of Christ. Dimock. This Psalm is appointed by the Church to be used on Christmas-day, when we celebrate the deliverance of mankind from the captivity of sin, and the introduction into the world of mercy and truth, righteousness and

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