John Calvin Commentary Psalms 116:10

"I believe, for I will speak: I was greatly afflicted:" — Psalms 116:10 (ASV)

I have believed. So that his wonderful deliverance may appear more conspicuous, he again relates the imminent danger in which he had been placed. He begins by declaring that he spoke in the true sincerity of his heart, and that nothing proceeded from his lips except what was the fruit of long reflection and mature deliberation.

Such is the meaning of the clause, I have believed, therefore I will speak; words that proceed from the full conviction of the heart. In 2 Corinthians 4:13, Paul, quoting this passage, follows the Greek version, I believed, therefore I have spoken. I have remarked elsewhere that it was not the apostles' design to repeat every word and syllable; it is enough for us that David's words are appropriately applied in their proper and natural sense to the subject to which Paul refers there.

Having referred indirectly to the Corinthians, who were exalting themselves above the clouds, as if they had been exempted from the common lot of mankind, “I believed,” says he, “and therefore I have spoken, that he who hath once raised Christ from the dead, will also extend Christ’s life to us;” that is, I believe, and therefore I speak.

Thus he charges the Corinthians with being inflated with foolish pride, because they do not humbly submit to the cross of Christ, especially as they ought to speak in the exercise of the same spirit of faith with himself. The particle כי, ki, which we translate therefore, is by some Hebrew interpreters understood as a disjunctive particle; but the more correct meaning, which is supported by the best scholars, is, I will speak nothing but the sentiments of my heart.

The main point of the passage, too, requires this: namely, that the external professions of the lips correspond with the internal feelings of the heart, for many talk inconsiderately and utter what never entered their hearts. “Let no one imagine that I use meaningless or exaggerated terms; what I speak, I have truly believed.”

From this we learn the useful doctrine that faith cannot remain inoperative in the heart, but must necessarily manifest itself. Here the Holy Spirit unites, with a sacred bond, the faith of the heart with outward confession; and what God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. Those dissemblers, therefore, who willingly envelop their faith in obscurity, treacherously corrupt the whole Word of God.

We must remember, however, that the order David observes here is required of all God’s children: believing before they make any professions with their lips. But, as I said, he speaks of his imminent danger so that he may further enhance the safety and deliverance God had granted to him.