Seventh-day Adventist Bible CommentaryPsalms 142

I cried. See on Ps. 107:13.

Complaint. Heb. síach, meaning also “concern.” The psalmist had no complaint against God’s dealings with him. He was complaining to God, not of God.

Thou knewest. When the psalmist poured out his complaint, it was not with the idea of informing God, but rather with the idea of sharing his troubles with his heavenly Friend.

Right hand. See on Ps. 121:5. Would know me. It seemed that no one was willing to acknowledge his friendship for the psalmist because of the danger involved.

Portion. See on Ps. 119:57. Our Refuge in Extremity

Nichol, F. D. (1978). The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary : The Holy Bible with exegetical and expository comment. Commentary Reference Series (Ps 120:1). Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association.

There are times when the spirit is wrapped in perplexity and distraught by false accusations. Under the stress of emotion the intellectual powers of good judgement are often confused, and the soul knows not which way to turn. At such a time one can open the heart to God and place full confidence in His overruling providence. Then the life will be filled with the bounties of the Lord, and the depression and consternation that formerly harassed the soul depart. Psalm 142:3

Historical background to 1 Samuel 24 if "the cave" of this Psalm is at En-gedi.

Compass. Heb. kathar. The form here found means “to congregate around a person.” Evidently those who were true followers of God were glad when the psalmist was delivered, and shared with him in thanksgiving. Deal bountifully. Though the present may be difficult and the future foreboding, the psalmist looks forward with confidence to the time of his deliverance.