Psalms 101

Psalms 101:1-8

My Righteous Purpose Psalms 101:1-8 This psalm, as the title indicates, was composed by David, probably at the commencement of his reign. It contains a number of resolutions upon which he was prepared to act. First, he made up his mind that he would give heed to the perfect way, and would walk in his house in the integrity of his heart, Psalms 101:2, r.v., margin. Next, he made up his mind to choose his friends with rigorous care, that froward hearts and evil persons should depart from him; that he would not enter into close relations with those that slandered their neighbors, or that gave evidence by their high looks of proud hearts. Deceit and falsehood were alike to be banished from his palace; while faithful souls, who also walked in “ the perfect way,” should minister to him. Finally, he made up his mind to carry out his rule in the public state, that the wicked might be put out of the way and the righteous exalted. It was an excellent program, and happy would he have been if, throughout his life, he had rigorously adhered to it. It is not possible for us to exercise David’ s absolute power in the selection of our environment. It is often necessary for us to work in places of business among those whom we would not choose as associates. But we can, at least, forbear making any of these our intimates, or the friends with whom we spend our leisure and recreational hours, 1 Corinthians 5:9-11.

Mercy and judgment Again we come on one of David’s Psalms. This was probably composed at the beginning of his reign and contains the ideal programme which he proposed to himself. The principles here laid down are those which not only apply to every Christian community, but which .will assuredly distinguish the kingdom of the blessed Lord, for whose advent the Church daily prayeth.

Psalms 101:1. Will sing of mercy and judgment Mercy and judgment marvelously blend in all human lives. They should be alike commemorated in song. Sing your songs to God!

Psalms 101:2. I willbehave myself wisely The art of this is given (Psalms 119:99; see also 1 Samuel 18:14-15). The reward of such conduct is the coming of God into the soul (Exodus 20:24; John 14:23). But the pious heart yearns for it to make haste and arrive. Oh, when wilt Thou come unto me? A perfect heart is the blameless, consecrated and wholly yielded heart (1 Kings 3:14; Proverbs 20:7).

Psalms 101:3-8. I will set no base thing before mine eyes! Here is the picture of a pious palace, or private dwelling-house. No slander or pride; upright and trustworthy servants; deceit and lying banished; and strict discipline maintained (1 Timothy 3:4).

We may well ask ourselves whether this is a true picture of the inner realm of the heart, and whether we are strict and merciless in not permitting traitors there. We do not now use the sword or extermination to men, but we should for evil principles and habits and unholy things.