in distress, to cry unto God, and it is their constant comfort that he hears them. The righteous are humbled for sin, and are low in their own eyes. Nothing is more needful to true godliness than a contrite heart, broken off from every self-confidence. In this soil every grace will flourish, and nothing can encourage such a one but the free, rich grace of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The righteous are taken under the special protection of the Lord, yet they have their share of crosses in this world, and there are those that hate them. Both from the mercy of Heaven, and the malice of hell, the afflictions of the righteous must be many. But whatever troubles befal them, shall not hurt their souls, for God keeps them from sinning in troubles. No man is desolate, but he whom God has forsaken. Psalms 34:1-22 . On the title compare 1 Samuel 21:13 . Abimelech was the general name of the sovereign ( Genesis 20:2 ). After celebrating God's gracious dealings with him, the Psalmist exhorts others to make trial of His providential care, instructing them how to secure it. He then contrasts God's care of His people and His punitive providence towards the wicked. 5-7. God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated. looked --with desire for help. lightened --or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed ( Psalms 25:2 Psalms 25:3 ). 6. This