psalm 142

Introduction.—Ps. 142 is an earnest appeal to God for help in a time of overwhelming trouble.

According to the superscription this psalm was composed while David was hiding in a cave, but the cave is not identified. It may have been Adullam (1 Sam. 22) or En-gedi (1 Sam. 24), or even a cave not mentioned in the historical narrative. On the basis of Ps. 142:6 some think that of the two mentioned, En-gedi is the more likely.

On the superscription see pp. 616, 628.

1. I cried. See on Ps. 107:13.

2. Complaint. Heb. sйЊach, meaning also “concern.” The psalmist had no complaint against God’s dealings with him. He was complaining to God, not of God.

3. Thou knewest. When the psalmist poured out his complaint, it was not with the idea of informing God, but rather with the idea of sharing his troubles with his heavenly Friend.

4. Right hand. See on Ps. 121:5.

Would know me. It seemed that no one was willing to acknowledge his friendship for the psalmist because of the danger involved.

5. Portion. See on Ps. 119:57.

Our Refuge in Extremity

Historical background to 1 Samuel 24 if «the cave» of this Psalm is at En-gedi.

7. Compass. Heb. kathar. The form here found means “to congregate around a person.” Evidently those who were true followers of God were glad when the psalmist was delivered, and shared with him in thanksgiving.

Deal bountifully. Though the present may be difficult and the future foreboding, the psalmist looks forward with confidence to the time of his deliverance.

Ellen G. White comments

4 MH 172