Psalm 61 Bible Commentary

John Wesley’s Explanatory Notes

(Read all of Psalm 61)

Verse 2

[2] From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

The end — To which David was driven.

Lead me — Convey me into some high and secure fortress.

Verse 4

[4] I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. /*Selah*/.

I will — I shall, I doubt not, be restored to the tabernacle, and worship thee there all my days.

Verse 5

[5] For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.

Heritage — Thou hast granted me this singular mercy, to live in God's land, to enjoy his presence, and to worship in his tabernacle; which is the heritage that all that fear thee, prize and desire above all things.

Verse 6

[6] Thou wilt prolong the king's life: and his years as many generations.

Prolong — The years of my life and reign. Thus he speaks because his kingdom was not like Saul's, but established to him and his heirs; and because Christ, his son and heir, should actually, and in his own person possess the kingdom for ever.

Verse 7

[7] He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.

Abide — In the throne.

Before God — Living and ruling as in God's presence, serving God and worshipping him in his tabernacle.

Truth — Thy truth in giving me those mercies which thou hast promised, and thy mercy in giving me such further blessings as I needs.