@Ps 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
@Ps 40:15 88:3-6).
5, 6. The distress is aggravated by the contrast of former comfort
(@Ps 22:3-5), for whose return he longs.
a thirsty land--which needs rain, as did his spirit God's gracious
visits (@Ps 28:1 89:17).
7. spirit faileth--is exhausted.
8. (Compare @Ps 25:1-4 59:16).
the way . . . walk--that is, the way of safety and righteousness
(@Ps 142:3-6).
9. (Compare @Ps 31:15-20).
10. (Compare @Ps 5:8 27:11).
land of uprightness--literally, "an even land" (@Ps 26:12).
11. (Compare @Ps 23:3 119:156).
12. God's mercy to His people is often wrath to His and their enemies
(compare @Ps 31:17).
thy servant--as chosen to be such, entitled to divine regard.