Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

Psalms 86

This psalm is entitled “a prayer of David;” probably it was not penned upon any particular occasion, but was a prayer he often used himself, and recommended to others for their use, especially in a day of affliction. Many think that David penned this prayer as a type of Christ, “who in the days of his flesh offered up strong cries,” Hebrews 5:7. David, in this prayer (according to the nature of that duty), I. Gives glory to God, Psalms 86:8-86:10, 86:12, 86:13. II. Seeks for grace and favour from God, that God would hear his prayers (Psalms 86:1, 86:6, 86:7), preserve and save him, and be merciful to him (Psalms 86:2, 86:3, 86:16), that he would give him joy, and grace, and strength, and put honour upon him, Psalms 86:4, 86:11, 86:17. He pleads God’s goodness (Psalms 86:5, 86:15) and the malice of his enemies, Psalms 86:14. In singing this we must, as David did, lift up our souls to God with application. MHBCC 565.1