John Calvin Commentary Psalms 25:10

"All the paths of Jehovah are lovingkindness and truth Unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies." — Psalms 25:10 (ASV)

All the ways of Jehovah. This verse is erroneously interpreted by those who think that the doctrine of the law is described here as true and sweet, and that those who keep it indeed feel it to be so, as if this passage had the same meaning as what Jesus Christ said: My yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:30).

Such an interpretation is not only strained but can also be easily disproved by many similar passages. In these passages, the expression The ways of the Lord, is taken in a passive meaning, referring to the paternal manner in which he acts towards his people in defending and cherishing them, and indeed, even to his whole conduct in the government and direction of the affairs of this world.

The essence of what is said is that God acts towards his people in such a way that, in all respects, they experience him as merciful and faithful. David is not speaking here of the way God acts towards humanity in general, but of what his own children find him to be.

We have already seen in Psalm 18:26 that he is stern and severe towards the obstinate and rebellious. Even though he acts with kindness towards them, by mercifully showing forbearance towards them despite their iniquity, yet we find that, far from seeking their full enjoyment in him and trusting his promises, they have no sense of his goodness.

Indeed, as soon as any adversity befalls them, they either become passionate and fretful, accuse God of acting cruelly towards them, or else complain that he is deaf to their prayers. And when they enjoy prosperity, they despise and neglect him and, as much as they can, flee from his presence.

David, therefore, in speaking of the mercy and faithfulness of God, justly describes them as a treasure unique to the godly. It is as if he had said, "We have no reason to be afraid that God will deceive us if we persevere in his covenant."

These words, covenant and testimony, have the same meaning, except that the second is added to explain the first. They encompass the whole doctrine of the law, by which God enters into covenant with his chosen people.