John Calvin Commentary Psalms 34:11

"Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of Jehovah." — Psalms 34:11 (ASV)

Come, children, hearken unto me. The Psalmist continues, with increased earnestness, to exhort the faithful, so that they may know that nothing can be more profitable for them than to conduct themselves justly and harmlessly towards all people. As most people imagine that the best and shortest way to attain a life of happiness and ease consists in striving to surpass others in violence, fraud, injustice, and other wicked deeds, it is necessary to repeat this doctrine frequently.

Moreover, as it is necessary that people's minds should be brought to a chastened and humble state, by calling them his children, he strives, by this gentle and courteous term, to calm all rebellious inclinations. No one will remain unshaken amid so many assaults, except those who have been endowed by the Spirit of meekness with the greatest humility.

The prophet, therefore, tells them at the outset that the rule of life which he prescribes can only be observed and obeyed by those who are meek and submissive. To the same purpose are the word come, and the command to hearken; and they imply that people, by laying aside all willfulness of spirit and having subdued the passion and impulsiveness of their minds, should become docile and meek.

He has set forth the fear of the Lord as the rule for a pious and holy life, as if he had said: While virtue and righteousness are on everyone's lips, few lead a holy life and live as they should, because they do not know what it is to serve God.