This is inscribed "To the chief musician on stringed instruments: a psalm of David." It appears to spring from the same occasion, but goes out more in expostulation to others, with directions for the godly; and it was meant for public service, as its companion Ps. 3 seems rather private or personal. It breathes no less confidence in looking to Jehovah, but pleads righteousness also. There is a practically good conscience, no ground of standing before God but good for his appeal (vers. 1, 2). It was not merely evil done to a man, but to him whom God had set over His people to be His king. Yet their heart went out to a worthless thing, their zeal was spent on a false object. So we can say that he that does the will of God abides for ever. Here the word is, "But know ye that Jehovah hath set apart him that is godly for himself: Jehovah will hear when I call up to him" (ver. 3). If he prayed, he counted on the answer. It is not the offended dignity of the king, nor yet the claims of the separated priest. The object of grace looks for grace, even if he were a king; and all the more, because Jehovah set him apart to Himself. How Christ entered into this, who can tell out? Nor does Jehovah fail to direct the gracious godly one (vers. 4, 5). Thus self-judgment, integrity of worship, and confidence are cherished. "Many are saying, who will show us good?" The saint's answer is ready, and it is a prayer of faith and love (vers. 6, 7). What are men's passing benefits to compare with the light of Jehovah's countenance? He alone is peace and security too, and the godly man loves to have it thus. So the close is, "In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for thou alone, O Jehovah, causest me to dwell safely" (ver. 8).