Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 20

PSALM 20

Psa 20:1-9. David probably composed this Psalm to express the prayers of the pious for his success as at once the head of the Church and nation. Like other compositions of which David in such relations is the subject, its sentiments have a permanent value--the prosperity of Christ's kingdom being involved, as well as typified, in that of Israel and its king.

1. hear thee--graciously (Psa 4:1).

name of--or manifested perfections, as power, wisdom, &c.

defend thee--set thee on high from danger (Psa 9:9; 18:3).

2. strengthen thee--sustain in conflict; even physical benefits may be included, as courage for war, &c., as such may proceed from a sense of divine favor, secured in the use of spiritual privileges.

3. all thy offerings--or gifts, vegetable offerings.

accept--literally, "turn to ashes" (compare 1Ki 18:38).

Selah--(See on Psa 3:2).

4. thy counsel--or plan.

5. salvation--that wrought and experienced by him.

set up our banners--(Nu 2:3, 10). In usual sense, or, as some render, "may we be made great."

6. He speaks as if suddenly assured of a hearing.

his anointed--not only David personally, but as the specially appointed head of His Church.

his holy heaven--or, literally, "the heavens of His holiness," where He resides (Psa 2:6; 11:4).

saving ... hand--His power which brings salvation.

7. remember--or cause to remember, mention thankfully (1Sa 17:45; Psa 33:16).

8. They--that is, who trust in horses, &c.

stand upright--literally, "we have straightened ourselves up from our distress and fears."

9. let the king hear--as God's representative, delivered to deliver. Perhaps a better sense is, "Lord, save the king; hear us when we call," or pray.