Psa 7:8-17 | JFB | STEP | 8. Though not claiming innocence in general, he can confidently do so in this case, and in demanding from the Judge of all the earth a judgment, he virtually asks acquittal.

‏ Psalms 7:8-17

8. Though not claiming innocence in general, he can confidently do so in this case, and in demanding from the Judge of all the earth a judgment, he virtually asks acquittal.

9. the hearts and reins--the affections and motives of men, or the seat of them (compare Psa 16:7; 26:2); as we use heart and bosom or breast.

10. defence--literally, "shield" (Psa 5:12).

11. judgeth--as in Psa 7:8.

the wicked--Though not expressed, they are implied, for they alone are left as objects of anger.

12-13. They are here distinctly pointed out, though by changing the person, a very common mode of speech, one is selected as a representative of wicked men generally. The military figures are of obvious meaning.

14. The first clause expresses the general idea that wicked men labor to do evil, the others carry out the figure fully.

15-16. 1Sa 18:17; 31:2 illustrate the statement whether alluded to or not. These verses are expository of Psa 7:14, showing how the devices of the wicked end in disappointment, falsifying their expectations.

17. his righteousness--(Psa 5:8). Thus illustrated in the defense of His servant and punishment of the wicked.