Psalms 101:2 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

I will behave, &c.— I will give instruction on the way of integrity: When will it come unto me? i.e. "I will compose a maschil to teach the true conduct of life: (O how long will it be ere I have the pleasure of enjoying it!)" Thus, says Mudge, will the sense be naturally continued on from singing and playing on instruments; after which begins the plan itself. I will walk, &c. But Dr. Chandler thinks that our version expresses the real sense, as the psalm does not contain instructive precepts to others, but the wise and salutary resolutions which David had made in reference to himself. Bishop Patrick is of opinion, that the expression refers to his own private behaviour, and contains his fixed purpose of studying with all diligence, integrity of life, and purity of manners. But, though this should not be wholly excluded, the passage seems rather to relate to his public conduct in the administration of government. He would sing of mercy and of judgment, as he was resolved to act with wisdom and circumspection, and with the most impartial justice toward all his subjects without exception. This interpretation seems to be countenanced by the words, O when wilt thou come unto me! There are some who think it probable, from this expression, that this psalm was penned during the contest between Ishbosheth and David, before he was established king over all Israel. I rather apprehend, says Dr. Chandler, that it was composed soon after that event; but whilst he was not yet firmly settled on the throne, and had not power enough to exert himself in the punishment of great offenders; as he himself complains: "I am this day weak, though anointed king; and these men, the sons of Zeruiah, are too hard for me, (2 Samuel 3:39.) that I cannot act as I would, and punish them according to their demerits." What therefore the Psalmist earnestly wished and desired was, that God would so favour him as to strengthen his hands, that he might be able to exercise justice impartially, and act agreeably to those wise and good maxims which he had laid down for the future good government of his people. An absent friend is little capable of assisting us. To do us real service, in many cases he must come to and favour us with his presence; and therefore the expression, O when wilt thou come unto me! is figurative, and must be explained of God's protecting and assisting him, as though he came to and was personally present with him, as he certainly is with all that trust him. With a perfect heart, in the next clause, is literally, in the integrity of my heart. The meaning is, "I will manage all my affairs as impartial truth and judgment shall direct me; and by my example encourage piety, holiness, and virtue, among all my domestics, dependants, and courtiers."