But he knoweth the way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
Ver. 10. But he knoweth the way that I take] Heb. That is with me. He perfectly understandeth that there is no way of wickedness in me, Psalms 139:24, no sin that I do favour, allow, and wallow in; but that the way that is called Holy is my delight and endeavour; that I am upright for the main, that my heart is not turned back, neither have my steps declined from his way, Psalms 44:18. I cannot see him, but he seeth me, and mine uprightness.
When he hath tried me] sc. With favour, and not with rigour (for then who should abide it? Psa 143:2). God promiseth to refine his people, but not as silver, Isaiah 48:10, that is, not exactly, lest they should be consumed in that fiery trial. This David knew, and therefore prayed, "Examine me, O Lord, and prove me, try my reins and my heart," Psalms 26:2; Psalms 139:23 .
I shall come forth as gold] Which is purged in the fire, shines in the water; as on the other side, clay is scorched in the fire, dissolved in the water.