TRV
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Commentary on Psalms 31 verses 19–24
We have three things in these verses: -
I. The believing acknowledgment which David makes of God's goodness to his people in general, Psa 31:19, Psa 31:20.
1.God is good to all, but he is, in a special manner, good to Israel. His goodness to them is wonderful, and will be, to eternity, matter of admiration: O how great is thy goodness! How profound are the counsels of it! how rich are the treasures of it! how free and extensive are the communications of it! Those very persons whom men load with slanders God loads with benefits and honours. Those who are interested in this goodness are described to be such as fear God and trust in him, as stand in awe of his greatness and rely on his grace. This goodness is said to be laid up for them and wrought for them. (1.) There is a goodness laid up for them in the other world, an inheritance reserved in heaven (Pe1 1:4), and there is a goodness wrought for them in this world, goodness wrought in them. There is enough in God's goodness both for the portion and inheritance of all his children when they come to their full age, and for their maintenance and education during their minority. There is enough in bank and enough in hand. (2.) This goodness is laid up in his promise for all that fear God, to whom assurance is given that they shall want no good thing. But it is wrought, in the actual performance of the promise, for those that trust in him - that by faith take hold of the promise, put it in suit, and draw out to themselves the benefit and comfort of it. If what is laid up for us in the treasures of the everlasting covenant be not wrought for us, it is our own fault, because we do not believe. But those that trust in God, as they have the comfort of his goodness in their own bosoms, so they have the credit of it (and the credit of an estate goes far with some); it is wrought for them before the sons of men. God's goodness to them puts an honour upon them and rolls away their reproach; for all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the Lord hath blessed, Isa 61:9.
2.God preserves man and beast; but he is, in a special manner, the protector of his own people (Psa 31:20): Thou shalt hide them. As his goodness is hid and reserved for them, so they are hid and preserved for it. The saints are God's hidden ones. See here, (1.) The danger they are in, which arises from the pride of man and from the strife of tongues; proud men insult over them and would trample on them and tread them down; contentious men pick quarrels with them; and, when tongues are at strife, good people often go by the worst. The pride of men endangers their liberty; the strife of tongues in perverse disputings endangers truth. But, (2.) See the defence they are under: Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence, in a pavilion. God's providence shall keep them safe form the malice of their enemies. He has many ways of sheltering them. When Baruch and Jeremiah were sought for the Lord hid them, Jer 36:26. God's grace shall keep them safe from the evil of the judgments that are abroad; to them they have no sting; and they shall hidden in the day of the Lord's anger, for there is no anger at them. His comforts shall keep them easy and cheerful; his sanctuary, where they have communion with him, shelters then from the fiery darts of terror and temptation; and the mansions in his house above shall be shortly, shall be eternally, their hiding-place from all danger and fear.
II. The thankful returns which David makes for God's goodness to him in particular, Psa 31:21, Psa 31:22. Having admired God's goodness to all the saints, he here owns how good he had found him. 1. Without were fightings; but God had wonderfully preserved his life: "He has shown me his marvellous loving-kindness, he has given me an instance of his care for me and favour to me, beyond what I could have expected." God's loving-kindness to his people, all things considered, is wonderful; but some instances of it, even in this world, are in a special manner marvelous in their eyes; as this here, when God preserved David from the sword of Saul, in caves and woods, as safe as if he had been in a strong city. In Keilah, that strong city, God showed him great mercy, both in making him an instrument to rescue the inhabitants out of the hands of the Philistines and then in rescuing him from the same men who would have ungratefully delivered him up into the hand of Saul, Sa1 23:5, Sa1 23:12. This was marvellous loving-kindness indeed, upon which he writes, with wonder and thankfulness, Blessed be the Lord. Special preservations call for particular thanksgivings. 2. Within were fears; but God was better to him than his fears, Psa 31:22. He here keeps an account, (1.) Of his own folly, in distrusting God, which he acknowledges, to his shame. Though he had express promises to build upon, and great experience of God's care concerning him in many straits, yet he had entertained this hard and jealous thought of God, and could not forbear telling it him to his face. "I am cut off before thy eyes; thou hast quite forsaken me, and I must not expect to be looked upon or regarded by thee any more. I shall one day perish by the hand of Saul, and so be cut off before thy eyes, be ruined while thou lookest on," Sa1 27:1. This he said in his flight (so some read it), which denotes the distress of his affairs. Saul was just at his back, and ready to seize him, which made the temptation strong. In my haste (so we read it), which denotes the disturbance and discomposure of his mind, which made the temptation surprising, so that it found him off his guard. Note, It is a common thing to speak amiss when we speak in haste and without consideration; but what we speak amiss in haste we must repent of at leisure, particularly that which we have spoken distrustfully of God. (2.) Of God's wonderful goodness to him notwithstanding. Though his faith failed, God's promise did not: Thou hearest the voice of my supplication, for all this. He mentions his own unbelief as a foil to God's fidelity, serving to make his loving-kindness the more marvellous, the more illustrious. When we have thus distrusted God he might justly take us at our word, and bring our fears upon us, as he did on Israel, Num 14:28; Isa 66:4. But he has pitied and pardoned us, and our unbelief has not made his promise and grace of no effect; for he knows our frame.
III. The exhortation and encouragement which he hereupon gives to all the saints, Psa 31:23, Psa 31:24. 1. He would have them set their love on God (Psa 31:23): O love the Lord! all you his saints. Those that have their own hearts full of love to God cannot but desire that others also may be in love with him; for in his favour there is no need to fear a rival. It is the character of the saints that they do love God; and yet they must still be called upon to love him, to love him more and love him better, and give proofs of their love. We must love him, not only for his goodness, because he preserves the faithful, but for his justice, because he plentifully rewards the proud doer (who would ruin those whom he preserves), according to their pride. Some take it in a good sense; he plentifully rewards the magnificent (or excellent) doer, that is daringly good, whose heart, like Jehoshaphat's, is lifted up in the ways of the Lord. He rewards him that does well, but plentifully rewards him that does excellently well. 2. He would have them set their hope in God (Psa 31:24): "Be of good courage; have a good heart on it; whatever difficulties or dangers you may meet with, the God you trust in shall by that trust strengthen your heart." Those that hope in God have reason to be of good courage, and let their hearts be strong, for, as nothing truly evil can befal them, so nothing truly good for them shall be wanting to them.
In singing this we should animate ourselves and one another to proceed and persevere in our Christian course, whatever threatens us, and whoever frowns upon us.
God’s abounding goodness aids us in a hidden way, and in the present life it is not clearly evident. For every objection of unbelievers would be removed, could we actually see what we only hope for. But our hopes await the ages to come, so that there may then be revealed what at present our faith alone apprehends.
"You will protect them in Your tabernacle from the contradiction of tongues" [Psalm 31:20]. But here meanwhile while evil tongues murmur against them, saying, Who has come thence? You will protect them in the tabernacle, that of faith in those things, which the Lord wrought and endured for us in time.
Although the just suffer trials in this age, a greater sweetness awaits them, if they persevere to the future, which the Lord hides meanwhile for those who fear him. He does not wish to show it in this age, so he may complete it for the ones hoping in him in the presence of those who mock them. Now he hides them in the secret of his presence from the vexation of people.… Then he magnifies his mercy when he prepares a fortified city, which angels surround, the mother city of holy Jerusalem.
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SUMMARY
Psalms 31:20 is a profound declaration of God's unwavering protection and intimate refuge for those who trust in Him. It vividly portrays the Almighty actively shielding His faithful from the destructive forces of human arrogance and malicious verbal assaults. This verse assures believers that within God's immediate, personal presence, they find an impenetrable sanctuary—a secure, concealed hiding place from the world's most insidious and pervasive threats.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Psalm 31 is a deeply personal lament and prayer of David, articulating his profound distress and steadfast reliance on God amidst severe affliction and intense opposition. The psalm opens with David's desperate plea for divine deliverance, setting a tone of urgent dependence (e.g., David's cry for help in Psalm 31:1-8). He graphically describes the overwhelming nature of his suffering, encompassing both physical and emotional decay (as seen in Psalm 31:9-10). Crucially, David emphasizes the treachery and slander of his adversaries, who conspire against him and spread damaging rumors (highlighted in Psalm 31:13). Amidst these heartfelt cries for rescue, verse 20 marks a powerful transition from petition to confident declaration, expressing David's unwavering trust in God's faithful preservation of the righteous. It stands as a testament to God's character as a steadfast protector, following David's clear declaration of trust in Psalm 31:14.
Historical & Cultural Context: David's life was undeniably marked by frequent and intense persecution, ranging from King Saul's relentless pursuit to the painful betrayal by his own son, Absalom. In ancient Near Eastern societies, a person's reputation was of paramount importance, and slander or false accusations could be utterly devastating, often leading to social ostracization, legal condemnation, or even death. The concept of "the pride of man" (human arrogance, oppressive power, and self-exaltation) represented a constant threat from rulers and powerful individuals who frequently disregarded divine law and justice. The imagery of a "pavilion" or "tent" as a place of refuge was deeply ingrained in nomadic and early Israelite culture, symbolizing temporary yet secure shelter. This concept is powerfully echoed in the tabernacle, which served as God's dwelling place and a sacred sanctuary for His people. This verse profoundly resonates with the lived experience of those facing precarious times, seeking divine intervention and protection against powerful and malicious human forces.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes present within Psalm 31 and the broader Psalter. The primary theme is Divine Refuge and Security, emphasizing God's unique and sovereign ability to "hide" and "keep" His people safe from external threats. The evocative imagery of being hidden "in the secret of thy presence" and "in a pavilion" conveys a profound sense of intimate, personal sanctuary, rendered inaccessible to human malice. This directly ties into the theme of Protection from Human Adversity, specifically targeting "the pride of man" (representing human arrogance, oppression, and self-exaltation) and "the strife of tongues" (malicious speech, slander, false accusations, and contentious words). God's presence acts as an ultimate, impenetrable barrier against these destructive forces, a concept beautifully echoed in other psalms that speak of God as a strong tower. Furthermore, the phrase "secret of thy presence" profoundly underscores the theme of Intimacy with God, suggesting a deep, personal relationship where believers dwell in close communion with the Almighty, experiencing His direct oversight, favor, and tender care. This intimate dwelling provides a profound peace that transcends external circumstances, a peace promised to those whose minds are stayed on God.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalms 31:20 is richly imbued with powerful Imagery and profound Metaphor, creating a vivid and comforting picture of divine protection. The concepts of being hidden "in the secret of thy presence" and "in a pavilion" are potent metaphors for God's protective embrace, transforming abstract theological ideas into tangible, comforting images of secure shelter and intimate concealment. The verse also employs striking Parallelism, specifically synonymous parallelism, where the second half of the verse reiterates and reinforces the meaning of the first half using different but closely related imagery and threats. "Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence" directly parallels "thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion," both conveying the profound truth of divine safeguarding. Similarly, "from the pride of man" parallels "from the strife of tongues," identifying two distinct but deeply related forms of human malice from which God provides protection. Finally, there is an element of Personification in how "the pride of man" and "the strife of tongues" are presented almost as active, attacking entities from which one needs protection, giving them a vivid, almost adversarial presence.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 31:20 profoundly articulates God's character as the ultimate Protector and the sole source of true security. It teaches that genuine refuge is not found in human defenses, worldly power, or self-reliance, but exclusively in the intimate, active presence of the Almighty. The verse highlights the pervasive nature of human evil, manifest in both overt arrogance and subtle, destructive speech, underscoring humanity's desperate need for a divine shield. The promise of being "hidden" and "kept secretly" reveals God's tender, meticulous care and His sovereign power to nullify the schemes of the wicked. This divine sanctuary offers not just physical safety but also profound spiritual and emotional peace, enabling believers to rest securely even amidst the most hostile environments. It affirms that God's presence is the most secure, comforting, and transformative place one can be, a place of deep communion where His people are enveloped in His boundless love and omnipotent power.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world increasingly defined by digital noise, pervasive public scrutiny, and contentious discourse, Psalms 31:20 offers an enduring beacon of hope and profoundly practical guidance. We live in an age where "the pride of man" manifests in unchecked power, systemic injustice, self-aggrandizing narratives, and oppressive structures, while "the strife of tongues" proliferates relentlessly through social media, rampant gossip, and deeply polarized public opinion, often inflicting deep, unseen wounds. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our ultimate security and inner peace are not contingent on silencing every critic or overcoming all opposition by our own limited strength. Instead, true, lasting refuge is found in intentionally seeking and dwelling in the "secret of God's presence." This calls for a deliberate spiritual posture: prioritizing prayer, diligent meditation on Scripture, and heartfelt worship as essential means of entering into and abiding within that divine sanctuary. When we are truly hidden in Him, our perspective profoundly shifts; the external chaos loses its power to define or disturb our inner state. We are encouraged to trust that God is actively at work, not necessarily by removing us from all trials, but by providing an inner calm, spiritual resilience, and divine wisdom that allows us to navigate the storms of human malice with grace, confidence, and unwavering faith. This sacred promise fosters a deep sense of belonging and absolute safety, enabling us to live courageously, knowing that our true dwelling place and ultimate security are found in the very heart of God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "secret of thy presence" truly mean for a believer today?
Answer: For a believer today, "the secret of thy presence" signifies an intimate, personal, and profoundly secure relationship with God. It means that through faith in Christ, we have direct, unhindered access to God's very being, where He actively conceals, protects, and sustains us. It's not a physical location but a spiritual reality where we are enveloped by His boundless love, omnipotent power, and divine wisdom. This "secret place" is where we find profound refuge from the world's chaos, experience deep communion with the Creator, and receive divine guidance and peace, much like a beloved child hidden securely and tenderly in a parent's embrace. It is the spiritual dwelling place of those who abide in Him, as beautifully described in Psalm 91:1.
How does God protect from "the pride of man" and "the strife of tongues" in a practical sense?
Answer: God's protection from "the pride of man" and "the strife of tongues" is multifaceted and deeply practical. It doesn't always mean physical removal from these threats, but often involves granting profound inner peace, divine wisdom, and spiritual resilience to endure and overcome them. Practically, this can manifest as:
Is this protection absolute, meaning believers will never suffer from these things?
Answer: The protection promised in Psalms 31:20 is absolute in its spiritual and ultimate sense, but it does not guarantee immunity from all external suffering or exposure to "the pride of man" or "the strife of tongues." Believers, much like David himself, will still experience these trials, persecutions, and verbal assaults in this fallen world. However, the profound promise is that these forces will not ultimately destroy, overwhelm, or separate them from God's enduring love and sovereign purpose for their lives. God's presence acts as an internal, spiritual shield, preserving their soul, their inner peace, and their faith amidst the most violent storms. It ensures that while the world may rage and inflict temporary pain, the believer's true refuge, identity, and eternal security in God remain unshaken and eternally secure. The ultimate security is found in God's unwavering faithfulness to keep His covenant people, even through profound suffering, leading them ultimately to eternal glory and perfect peace in His presence Romans 8:38-39.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 31:20 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of God's "presence" (פָּנִים), the Word made flesh who "tabernacled" (pitched His tent/pavilion) among us, thereby perfectly fulfilling the imagery of the çukkâh or "pavilion" as God's dwelling place with humanity (Isaiah 7:14). Jesus perfectly endured "the pride of man" in its most insidious and concentrated forms: the arrogant self-righteousness of religious leaders, the abuse of political power by Pilate and Herod, and the scornful cries of the crowds who demanded His crucifixion (Matthew 27:11-26). He also bore the full brunt of "the strife of tongues," facing relentless false accusations, vicious mockery, and slander from His enemies even as He hung on the cross (Matthew 27:39-44). Yet, through His perfect life, atoning suffering, redemptive death, and glorious resurrection, He decisively conquered these forces, providing the ultimate "secret place" for all who trust in Him. Believers are now eternally "hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:3), finding their complete security, identity, and eternal refuge in His finished work on the cross. Moreover, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, Christ's very presence becomes the believer's intimate sanctuary, a constant source of peace, strength, and protection from within, fulfilling the promise of God's abiding presence and intimate fellowship (John 14:16-17). Thus, in Christ, the profound promise of Psalms 31:20 is not merely a hope or a distant ideal, but a living, dynamic reality for every believer who is united to Him.