Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

Psalms 27

Some think David penned this psalm before his coming to the throne, when he was in the midst of his troubles, and perhaps upon occasion of the death of his parents; but the Jews think he penned it when he was old, upon occasion of the wonderful deliverance he had from the sword of the giant, when Abishai succoured him (2 Samuel 21:16, 21:17) and his people thereupon resolved he should never venture his life again in battle, lest he should quench the light of Israel. Perhaps it was not penned upon any particular occasion; but it is very expressive of the pious and devout affections with which gracious souls are carried out towards God at all times, especially in times of trouble. Here is, I. The courage and holy bravery of his faith, Psalms 27:1-27:3. II. The complacency he took in communion with God and the benefit he experienced by it, Psalms 27:4-27:6. III. His desire towards God, and his favour and grace, Psalms 27:7-27:9, 27:11, 27:12. IV. His expectations from God, and the encouragement he gives to others to hope in him, Psalms 27:10, 27:13, 27:14. And let our hearts be thus affected in singing this psalm. MHBCC 506.1