Psalms 131:1 - Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible

PSALM 131 THE ARGUMENT This Psalm seems to have been composed by David during Saul's persecution. when be was charged with boundless ambition, and a greedy affectation of the royal throne, and that he sought it by wicked practices against Saul's life and dignity. And for his own just vindication he is forced to publish his own integrity, and to declare that as the right of the kingdom was not sought or coveted by him, but freely conferred upon him by the unexpected and undesired favour of God; so that he had no thought or design to invade the throne before his time, but was willing to stay God's leisure for it, and in the mean time was resolved to behave himself towards Saul as became a faithful subject, seeking nothing but to preserve his own life from the rage of unrighteous and bloody men. David testifieth his humility, Psalms 131:1,2, and exhorteth Israel to trust in the Lord, Psalms 131:3. Is not haughty; or, lifted up, with that pride whereof I am accused, as thou the Searcher of all hearts knowest. Nor mine eyes lofty; which is a sign and effect of pride, Proverbs 6:17, Proverbs 21:4. Neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me; Heb. neither have I walked in great matters, &c. It neither is nor hath been my course to attempt or arrogate any thing to myself above my degree and private capacity, or to affect worldly glory or domination.