The Pulpit Commentary on Psalms 13:1-6

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

The agony of desertion.

Probably a psalm of David, composed at the time of Saul's persecution. It expresses the agony of a mind that thinks itself deserted of God, in danger of death, and threatened by a formidable enemy. It is a long and weary struggle; and, wrestling with his despair, he breaks into a pitiful prayer, which is succeeded by the exercise of a returning faith.

I. DESPAIR. (Psalms 13:1, Psalms 13:2.)

1. He thinks he is for ever forsaken of God. The emphasis lies on the "for ever." How much this implies of delight in the former friendship of God! Compare Christ's cry on the cross.

2. Fruitless efforts of the mind to escape from its position. "Taking counsel," etc. These issue only in continued sorrow of heart. One plan after another is revolved and rejected; one solution after another of his difficulties is thought of, and then dismissed; and he is left in despair. He is helpless and hopeless.

3. Personal danger from some enemy. (Psalms 13:2.) Probably Saul. Internal and external causes combined to make him profoundly miserable.

II. BUT EVEN IN HIS DESPAIR HE PRAYS.

1. Look upon me (equivalent to "consider"). And do not continue to hide thy face.

2. Hear and succour (equivalent to "answer me"). And do not forget me for ever. This is hope out of despair—the single ray of light that shot into his deep darkness. There is something left for each of us.

3. Give a renewed power of life (equivalent to "lighten mine eyes"). Anxiety and sorrow had induced physical depression, and he apprehended that he would sink into the sleep of death. "Lighten mine eyes" here means, "Send back the tide of life, that my eyes may again be lit with life, and the deathlike drowsiness dispelled."

III. PRAYER LEADS HIM BACK INTO TRUST.

1. He remembers the object of his former trust. "In thy loving-kindness have I trusted." Not in his personal merits, nor only in the justice of his cause. Faith grasps the unseen as the pound of its trust.

2. He recollects the reasons of that trust. "Thy salvation," which I have experienced in former times. God's bountiful dealing with him. That had been the rule of the Divine conduct towards him. Faith draws hope out of experience.—S.

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