Psalms 143 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 143 Psa 143:1-12 . In structure and style, like the preceding (Psalms 104-142), this Psalm is clearly evinced to be David's. It is a prayer for pardon, and for relief from enemies; afflictions, as usual, producing confession and penitence. 1. in thy faithfulness ... and ... righteousness-- or, God's regard to the claims which He has permitted His people to make in His covenant.
2. enter ... judgment-- deal not in strict justice. shall no ... justified-- or, "is no man justified," or "innocent" ( Job 14:3 ; Ro 3:20 ).
3-4. The exciting reason for his prayer-- his afflictions--led to confession as just made: he now makes the complaint. as those that have been long dead-- deprived of life's comforts (compare Psa 40:15 ; 88:3-6 ).
5-6. The distress is aggravated by the contrast of former comfort ( Psa 22:3-5 ), for whose return he longs. a thirsty land-- which needs rain, as did his spirit God's gracious visits ( Psa 28:1 ; 89:17 ).
7. spirit faileth-- is exhausted.
8. (Compare Psa 25:1-4; 59:16). the way ... walk-- that is, the way of safety and righteousness ( Psa 142:3-6 ).
10. (Compare Psa 5:8 ; 27:11 ). land of uprightness-- literally, "an even land" ( Psa 26:12 ).
11. (Compare Psa 23:3 ; 119:156 ).