The Righteous One, when an outcast, looking for the day of His Restoration

The exact period and experience in David’s life when this was written is subject to diverse opinions. But we know it was when he was separated from the means of grace, for it seemed as if he was at the “end of the earth.” His experience was overwhelming, and yet the eyes of his soul were nevertheless fastened on God, his Rock. At such a time God is a rock, a shelter and a strong tower. Though the tabernacle was denied him, the tabernacle above would be his abiding portion.

He not only looked for the preservation and extension of his life, but in vv. 6 & 7, there is the recognition of One who was greater. A King was to come who, through death, would be raised to life and immortality, the God-Man who would dwell in the presence of God for ever. God’s mercy and truth would preserve Him in life and death, and through Him, His people.

Psalm 61

   1  O God, give ear unto my cry;
         unto my pray'r attend.
   2  From th' utmost corner of the land
         my cry to thee I'll send.

      What time my heart is overwhelmed,
         and in perplexity,
      Do thou me lead unto the Rock
         that higher is than I.

   3  For thou hast for my refuge been
         a shelter by thy pow'r;
      And for defense against my foes
         thou hast been a strong tow'r.

   4  Within thy tabernacle I
         for ever will abide;
      And under covert of thy wings
         with confidence me hide.

   5  For thou the vows that I did make,
         O Lord my God, didst hear:
      Thou hast giv'n me the heritage
         of those thy name that fear.

   6  A life prolonged for many days
         thou to the king shalt give;
      Like many generations be
         the years which he shall live.

   7  He in God's presence his abode
         for evermore shall have:
      O do thou truth and mercy both
         prepare, that may him save.

   8  And so will I perpetually
         sing praise unto thy name;
      That having made my vows, I may
         each day perform the same.

 
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