The Treasury of David
by C.H. Spurgeon
EXPOSITION OF THE PSALMS
(Psalms 84 Verse 7)
EXPOSITION
Verse 7. They go from strength to strength. So far from being wearied they gather strength as they proceed. Each individual becomes happier, each company becomes more numerous, each holy song more sweet and full. We grow as we advance if heaven be our goal. If we spend our strength in God's ways we shall find it increase.
Every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. This was the end of the pilgrim's march, the centre where all met, the delight of all hearts. Not merely to be in the assembly, but to appear before God was the object of each devout Israelite. Would to God it were the sincere desire of all who in these days mingle in our religious gatherings. Unless we realise the presence of God we have done nothing; the mere gathering together is nothing worth.
EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS
Verse 6-7. See Psalms on "Psalms 84:7" for further information.
Verse 7. They go from strength to strength. Junius reads it, and so it is in the Hebrew, "They go from company to company." As they went up to Jerusalem they went in troops and companies. Possibly we translate it strength because much of our safety consisteth in good society. George Swinnock.
Verse 7. Every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. That is, every one of them answering to the character described. Others as well as they would appear in Zion before God; but not to enjoy his presence, and receive tokens of his favour. Blessedness was not to be enjoyed, but it could only be enjoyed by those who had been previously fitted for it by character and attainment. As certainly as these had been acquired, so certainly would the blessedness be enjoyed by each and by all of them. Every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. No one has perished by the way -- none been devoured by wild beasts -- none cut off by the wandering banditti -- none become faint hearted and turned back. The whole bands are assembled -- young and old, weak and strong; all answer to their names, and testify to the goodness of the Lord in bearing them up, and bringing through -- in affording them rest, and yielding them pleasure. So shall it ever be with true spiritual pilgrims. The grace of God will always prove sufficient to preserve them, safe and blameless, to his heavenly kingdom and glory -- troubles shall not overwhelm them -- temptations not wholly overcome them -- spiritual enemies shall not destroy them. They are kept by the power of God, through faith unto salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time. Their names are written in the Lamb's book of life, and the Lamb himself shall see to it that each of them is found in the day of account. Then shall he be able to say, Those whom thou hast given me I have kept, and none of them is lost. "They are all here before God." William Makelvie. 1863.
HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS
Verse 5-7. See Psalms on "Psalms 84:5" for further information.
Verse 7.
- Trusting God in trouble brings present comfort --
Who passing, etc.
- Present comfort ensures still larger supplies -- The
rain also, etc. G. R.