Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry notes that this verse is a plaintive cry of David, expressing his sense of urgency and need for God's attention. His plea, "Hide not thy face," signifies the anguish of feeling forsaken by God. Henry emphasizes that God's face represents His favor and presence, which the psalmist desperately desires to see.

• Divine Attention: The phrase "hear me speedily" reflects the urgency of David's situation. Henry interprets this as a model for believers to follow when they find themselves in distress, turning to God for immediate relief and comfort.
• Recognizing Human Frailty: In his commentary, Henry points out that acknowledging one's troubles is essential for receiving divine assistance. David's honesty about his suffering serves as an example of how to approach God in prayer.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes observes that the psalmist's plea is a heartfelt request. He underlines the importance of God’s “face” in Hebrew thought, indicating personal relationship and protection. Barnes elaborates on the phrase "for I am in trouble," indicating a sense of humility in acknowledgment of David's dire situation.

• The Urgency of Appeals: Barnes affirms that the word "speedily" indicates the immediacy of the psalmist's need. This highlights a powerful lesson in prayer: when one is in pain, the longing for a swift answer from God is natural and appropriate.
• God's Favor: Barnes explains that seeing God’s face is synonymous with receiving His blessings. The psalmist's desperation speaks to a deeper desire for restoration of covenant relationship and intimacy with God.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a rich analytical perspective, focusing on the emotional and spiritual significance of the plea. He notes that the request to "hide not thy face" suggests the height of grief, as when one feels abandoned by a beloved figure.

• Theological Implications: Clarke encourages readers to contemplate the theological implications of God’s presence and absence. The perception that God is hidden can lead to spiritual crises, emphasizing the necessity of faith and perseverance in prayer.
• Identification with the Suffering: Clarke highlights that David’s suffering resonates with the suffering of Christ. This verse foreshadows the experience of abandonment that Jesus would later express on the cross, making it a poignant reminder of the human experience of pain amid divine silence.

Application for Pastoral Care

In pastoral ministry, this passage can provide a framework for counseling those in distress. The raw honesty of David's cry is a reminder that God welcomes our most vulnerable moments. Pastors can encourage congregants to express their struggles openly in prayer, assuring them of God’s readiness to hear and respond, even when the answers are not immediate.

Application for Theological Study

For theologians and students of Scripture, fear not of questions when encountering divine silence is vital. Psalms like 69 prompt fruitful discussions about the nature of God, the reality of suffering, and the human condition. The inquiry into how believers perceive God's presence in challenging times can lead to deeper insights into faith and resilience.