1 To the Overseer, on stringed instruments. -- By David. Hear, O God, my loud cry, attend to my prayer.
2 From the end of the land unto Thee I call, In the feebleness of my heart, Into a rock higher than I Thou dost lead me.
3 For Thou hast been a refuge for me, A tower of strength because of the enemy.
4 I sojourn in Thy tent to the ages, I trust in the secret place of Thy wings. Selah.
5 For Thou, O God, hast hearkened to my vows, Thou hast appointed the inheritance Of those fearing Thy name.
6 Days to the days of the king Thou addest, His years as generation and generation.
7 He dwelleth to the age before God, Kindness and truth appoint -- they keep him.
8 So do I praise Thy name for ever, When I pay my vows day by day!
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Commentary on Psalms 61 Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible
PSALM 61
Ps 61:1-8. Neginah—or, Neginoth (see on Ps 4:1, title). Separated from his usual spiritual privileges, perhaps by Absalom's rebellion, the Psalmist prays for divine aid, and, in view of past mercies, with great confidence of being heard.
1-3. From the end—that is, places remote from the sanctuary (De 28:64).
2. heart is overwhelmed—literally, "covered over with darkness," or, "distress."
to the rock—(Ps 18:2; 40:2).
higher than I—which otherwise I cannot ascend.
3. shelter … and strong tower—repeat the same sentiment.
4. I will abide—So I desire to do (compare Ps 23:6).
trust in the covert, &c.—make my refuge, in the shadow (compare Ps 17:8; 36:7).
5. the heritage—or, part in the spiritual blessings of Israel (Ps 21:2-4).
vows—implies prayers.
6, 7. the king—himself and his royal line ending in Christ. Mercy and truth personified, as in Ps 40:11; 57:3.
7. abide before God—literally, "sit as a king in God's presence," under His protection.
8. Thus for new blessings will new vows of praise ever be paid.