But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them.
The prayer based on the foregoing representation begins the fourth strophe.
But thou, O Lord, be merciful unto me - resumed from Psalms 41:4, in contrast to their unmercifulness (Psalms 41:4-9).
And raise me up - disappointing their malicious hope, "he shall rise up no more" (Psalms 41:8). And raise me up - disappointing their malicious hope, "he shall rise up no more" (Psalms 41:8).
That I may requite them - not in personal revenge, but in vindication of the honour of God, insulted in my person. True typically of David (2 Samuel 19:21-23; 1 Kings 2:8-9; 1 Kings 2:37; 1 Kings 2:46. In his personal character David strictly abstained from revenge (1 Samuel 24:1-22; 1 Samuel 26:1-25; Psalms 7:4; cf. Matthew 5:39-40; Proverbs 20:22). So Christ, the Antitype (Luke 19:27), as representing the honour of God, and vindicating the cause of His righteousness (2 Thessalonians 1:8).