Psalms 64

REFLECTIONS UPON PSALM LXIV.—A believer’s troubles and enemies often fill his heart with fear, and drive him to his prayers. And in every age and place the bitterest words of reproach and infamy are liberally shot forth against the most faithful saints. Being perfect in Jesus’ imputed righteousness, and having the truth of grace in their hearts, they are hated by the world, who cannot bear their holy and heavenly conversation. Daring in wickedness, their enemies often neither fear God nor regard man, but encourage one another in sin; nor do they stick at any thing to accomplish their malicious designs. With what care they pry into the faults of the godly, suborn false witnesses, wrest their words, and eke out their defamations with impudent falsehoods! but God will at last revenge the injuries done to his people. And when he strikes home there is no escaping. Then the reproaches of the wicked, and their wicked supplications, shall draw down loads of wrath on their own heads. And it is our wisdom to profit by the judgments of others. Too often warnings are lost through inconsideration. Even persecutors ought to learn and trouble while the door of mercy is yet open. And saints should rejoice in God’s manifestation of his 69 power and justice, and in their own deliverance; and trust in him, and make him their glory