John Calvin Commentary Psalms 109:20

"This is the reward of mine adversaries from Jehovah, And of them that speak evil against my soul." — Psalms 109:20 (ASV)

Let this be the work from Jehovah. That is, let the gain or reward of the work be from God. In pointing out the work as proceeding immediately from God, he intends to show that, even though deprived of all human aid, he still entertained the hope that God would grant him deliverance and avenge the injuries of his servant.

From this verse we learn that David did not rashly or imprudently utter curses against his enemies, but strictly adhered to what the Spirit dictated. Indeed, I acknowledge that many, while they pretend to have a similar confidence and hope, nevertheless recklessly rush beyond the bounds of temperance and moderation.

But what David saw with the unclouded eye of faith, he also uttered with a zeal fitting for a sound mind. For, having devoted himself to the cultivation of piety and being protected by the hand of God, he was aware that the day was approaching when his enemies would meet with merited punishment.

From this we also learn that his trust was placed in God alone, and that he did not defer to men to the extent of directing his course according to how the world smiled or frowned upon him. And certainly, whoever places his dependence on men will find that the most trivial incident will annoy him.

Therefore, should the whole world abandon us, it is fitting for us, in imitation of this holy man, to lift up our heads to heaven and from there look for our defender and deliverer.

If it is His intention to employ human means for our deliverance, He will soon raise up those who will accomplish His purpose. Should He, to test our faith, deprive us of all earthly assistance—instead of regarding that as a detraction from the glory of His name—we ought to wait until the proper time arrives when He will fully display that decision in which we can calmly acquiesce.