God is always available, even during the attacks of the enemy; see Ps 34, 1 Sam 21.

v1-2: The threats of men; 'they hotly pursue me, they press their attack;' in contrast, mercy is found in God, 2 Sam 24.14. We seek mercy from God, and have every confidence that we shall find it.

v3-4: See v10-11; as in Ps 42-43, a refrain in the song. God is always available whenever I am afraid; again, these words describe real feelings. The psalmist has confidence that God is greater than man, and therefore he need not fear. So, we learn, faith will deal with fear. The use of 'whenever' implies repeated attacks; our enemy is not satisfied at a single foray, but comes at us time and again; see Luke 4.13.

v5-6: More attacks, including subtlety and deceit. Again, the attacks are constant, "all day long...always." There are apparently many, who twist my words, who plot against me, who conspire together, who lurk in dark places; they lie in wait, watching my steps, planning to take my life. Here is the description of a deliberate plan to destroy the godly. These words are also fulfilled in Christ, as the Pharisees and others conspired together against Him.

v7-8: The prayer of the psalmist, recognising that God makes a distinction between His own people and those who attack them. He will judge one, and preserve the other.

v9-11: Confidence in God's answer. Prayer reflects an attitude of trust in God. We know "God is for me." He remains faithful to His own people.

v12-13: The habit of praising God whatever the circumstances, and depending on Him at all times. He will deliver us for He is faithful.

We can walk before God "in the light of life," a quality of spiritual life.