In verse 7, the psalmist sets himself off from the wicked mentioned in v. 4-6 and approaches God in the multitude of His mercy. He realized, even as we should, that he could not approach God on the basis of his own righteousness. Isaiah stated clearly our spiritual condition, “But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousness are like filthy rags; We all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away” (Isa. 64:6). The only way we can enter into God’s presence is through our Savior and “the multitude of Your mercy” (v. 7). A very important lesson also that the psalmist teaches us is that we must approach God in “fear” or “reverence” and this is how we take refuge in God. When we are facing adversity of whatever nature we should look to the “multitude of God’s mercy” and believe that God will come to our aid and help us. The apostle Peter said, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (I Pet. 5:7).
After speaking of and identifying the wicked, David includes all of God’s people who may be suffering (v. 11-12). He said, “But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; Let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; Let those also who love Your name be joyful in You.” The reason God’s people can rejoice in time of adversity is as the psalmist said, “Thanks be to the Lord, who daily carries our burdens for us. God is our salvation” (Psa. 68:19). The NKJV renders the phrase “Who daily carries our burdens for us” as “Who daily loads us with benefits.” In either case, God will bless the righteous and surround him as with a shield” (v. 12).
Those who trust in the Lord, our King, and take refuge in Him may rejoice in His protection and blessings for these are new every morning (Lam. 3:22-23).
— Walnut Street Church of Christ
