Psalms 57:3 - Homilies By W. Forsyth

Mercy and truth.

I. MARK GOD 'S CHARACTER . When God proclaimed his Name to Moses, he put "mercy" in the forefront: "The Lord God merciful;" but "truth" had also its place, for it is added," abundant in truth" ( Exodus 34:6 ). The same order is observed in the Psalms. Thus it is said ( Psalms 86:15 ), "Thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth " (cf. Psalms 89:2 ).

II. SHINE FORTH IN GOD 'S JUDGMENTS . What God does shows what he is. His works express his character. "Mercy and truth" are, so to speak, the rails on which his judgments travel ( Psalms 25:10 ; Psalms 103:17 ).

III. CHARACTERIZE GOD 'S DEALINGS WITH HIS PEOPLE . They need "mercy; and unto the Lord "belongeth mercy" ( Psalms 62:12 ). They need "truth," and God is "the God of truth" ( Psalms 31:5 ). In the salvation which God has wrought, both are blended in beautiful harmony ( Psalms 85:10 ). As has been quaintly said, "Mercy and truth are but the transverse arms of the cross of Christ. Righteousness and peace are but its upper and lower limbs. The one springs out of the earth, the other has looked down from heaven, and they have kissed each other, in token of God's love and of his reconciliation with the sons of men."

IV. FOUNDATION OF HOPE TO THE CHILDREN OF MEN . Mercy and truth are the two outspread wings of God. Under them there is sure shelter and peace ( Psalms 36:7 ; Psalms 61:1-4 ). Here there is hope for the sinner. Here there is comfort for the troubled in heart ( Psalms 57:3-10 ). Here there is inspiration for all who are minded to serve God ( Psalms 69:13 ; Psalms 98:3 ; Psalms 115:1 ). Here there is earnest and foreshadowing of the everlasting rest ( Psalms 61:7 ; Psalms 63:7 ; Psalms 138:8 ).—W.F.