Verse 2 Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. /*Selah*/. My soul — Of me: the soul being commonly put for the person. In God — God hath utterly forsaken him. Selah — This word is no where used but in this poetical book, and in the song of Habakkuk. Probably it was a musical note, directing the singer either to lift up his voice, to make a pause, or to lengthen the tune. But withal, it is generally placed at some remarkable passage; which gives occasion to think that it served also to quicken the attention of the singer and hearer.
Verse 3 But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. A shield — My defence. My glory — Thou hast formerly given, and wilt farther give occasion of glorying in thy power and favour. Lifter up — Thou wilt restore me to my former power and dignity.
Verse 4 I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. /*Selah*/. His hill — Out of heaven, so called, Psalms 15:1 .
Verse 5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me. Slept — Securely, casting all my cares upon God. Awaked — After a sweet and undisturbed sleep.
Verse 7 Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly. Cheek bone — Which implies contempt and reproach. Teeth — Their strength and the instruments of their cruelty. He compares them to wild beasts.