Verses 1–3
Testimonies - Thy promises, which no less than the precepts are God's testimonies, or the witnesses, or declarations of his will to mankind. He seems here to speak of those precious promises concerning the erection of his kingdom in the world by the Messiah. Holiness - It becometh thy people to be holy in all their approach to thee.
Verses 4–6
Utter - Or pour forth freely, constantly, abundantly, as a fountain doth waters (so this Hebrew word signifies.) Hard things - Insolent, and intolerable words against thee and thy people.
Verses 7–8
Of Jacob - He who takes that name to himself, but has no regard to his people.
Verse 9
Planted - The word is emphatical, signifying the excellent structure of the ear, or the several organs belonging to the sense of hearing. Formed - By which word he intimates the accurate and curious workmanship of the eye.
Verse 10
Know - Mens thoughts and words and actions.
Verse 11
Thoughts - Yes, he knoweth all things, even the most secret things, as the thoughts of men; and in particular your thoughts; much more your practices.
Verses 12–14
Blessed - Those afflictions which are accompanied with Divine instructions are great and true blessings.
Verse 15
But - God will declare himself to be a righteous judge, and will again establish justice in the earth. Follow - They will all approve of it, and imitate this justice of God in all their actions.
Verse 16
Rise - To defend and help me. I looked hither and thither, but none appeared; God alone helped me.
Verses 17–18
Dwelt - In the place of silence, the grave.
Verse 19
Thoughts - While my heart was filled with various and perplexing thoughts, as this Hebrew word signifies. Comforts - Thy promises, and the remembrance of my former experience of thy care and kindness.
Verses 20–23
Shall - Wilt thou take part with the unrighteous powers of the world who oppress thy people. A law - By virtue of those unrighteous decrees which they have made.