Seventh-day Adventist Bible CommentaryPsalms 61

My cry. See on Ps. 17:1.

End of the earth. The expression is evidently hyperbolic, and does not necessarily denote distance. The language possibly reflects the writer’s mental state. The poet describes vividly his feeling of separation from the sanctuary. He seems as far removed as if he were actually in the ends of the earth. To him Jerusalem is the center of the earth. Is overwhelmed. Literally, “is feeble,” probably suggesting discouragement. Rock that is higher. The Oriental traveler is delighted when he can find, jutting high above the illimitable blazing desert, a great crag under whose shade he may rest or on whose top he may find safety from beasts and other marauders (see Isa. 32:2). It is well to pray not so much for deliverance as for endurance and elevation. Troubles tend to decrease when they are surveyed from a height. See E. Johnson’s hymn, “O Sometimes the Shadows Are Deep,” No. 633 in The Church Hymnal, in which the refrain takes its inspiration from this verse.

A shelter. Heb. machseh, “a refuge,” that is, something that offers cover or protection. Tower. Heb. migdal, usually referring to a man-made elevation, such as a watch- tower in a field (see on Ps. 18:2, in which this idea is amplified in a succession of metaphors).

I will abide. Or, “let me sojourn.” The psalmist prays for the day when once more he shall have the privilege of worshiping in the sanctuary (see on Ps. 15:1). Tabernacle. Literally, “tent,” referring to the temporary nature of the sanctuary at that time. For ever. See on Ps. 23:6. Covert of thy wings. See on Ps. 17:8; see also 36:7; 57:1; 63:7; 91:4. Selah. See p. 629.

Hast heard. The psalmist had evidently made specific promises to God. It appears that with these in mind he is emboldened to press his requests. Vows. Promises made by the psalmist, probably in time of exile. Heritage. Evidently a reference to the psalmist’s inheritance in Canaan, figuratively denoting all the temporal and spiritual blessings of God’s promises. Fear thy name. See on Ps. 5:11; 7:17.

Thou wilt prolong. The clause reads literally, “Thou wilt cause to add days upon the days of the king.” In absolute confidence the psalmist prays for the extension of the life of the king through the providence of God.

He shall abide. Or, “may he dwell.” Mercy and truth. A beautiful prayer for a long and useful life in God’s presence, a life controlled by mercy and truth (see on Ps. 57:3; 85:10; Prov. 20:28).

Unto thy name. See on Ps. 5:11; 7:17. Vows. See on v. 5. The psalm closes with an expression of the psalmist’s deep desire to take part in the service and worship of God.