Psalms 138:3

“In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, etc.] When in distress through Saul’s persecution, he cried to the Lord, and he immediately answered him, and delivered him out of his troubles; and such immediate answers of prayer are to be remembered with thankfulness: (see <191806>Psalm 18:6 <236524>Isaiah 65:24); [and] strengthenedst me [with] strength in my soul; put him good heart and spirit, when before ready to faint; strengthened his heart and grace in it, particularly faith, and drew it forth into lively act and exercise so that he sunk not under the weight of affliction and trouble, but was filled with courage to withstand his enemies, and with strength to do the will and work of God;…”

“In the day when I cried - Referring to some former period of his life when he was in trouble. Thou answeredst me - In the very day when I called, thou gavest me the answer: that is, immediately. And strengthenedst me with strength in my soul - literally, “Thou didst embolden - or, didst make me courageous with strength.” Thou didst enable me to meet danger, and to overcome fear. It would seem probable that this was on some occasion when he was in danger from his enemies. return to 'Top of Page'”

“In the day: Psa 18:6, Psa 34:4-6, Psa 77:1, Psa 77:2; Isa 65:24 strengthenedst: Psa 27:14, Psa 29:11, Psa 63:8; Isa 12:2, Isa 40:29-31, Isa 41:10; Zac 10:12; Co2 12:8-10; Eph 3:16, Eph 6:10; Phi 4:13; Col 1:11; Pe1 5:10 Psalms 138:4”

“There are two things for which the poet gives thanks to God: He has answered him in the days of trouble connected with his persecution by Saul and in all distresses; and by raising him to the throne, and granting him victory upon victory, and promising him the everlasting possession of the throne, He has filled him with a proud courage, so that lofty feeling has taken up its abode in his soul, which was formerly fearful about help. Just as רהב signifies impetuosity, vehemence, and then also a monster, so הרהיב signifies both to break in upon one violently and overpowerlingly ( Sol 6:5; cf. Syriac arheb, Arabic arhaba, to terrify), and to make any one courageous, bold, and confident of…”