Matthew Henry Commentary Psalms 54:1-3

"Save me, O God, by thy name, And judge me in thy might. Hear my prayer, O God; Give ear to the words of my mouth. For strangers are risen up against me, And violent men have sought after my soul: They have not set God before them. Selah" — Psalms 54:1-3 (ASV)

God is faithful, though people are not to be trusted, and it is well for us that it is so. David has no other plea to depend on than God's name, no other power to depend on than God's strength, and these he makes his refuge and confidence. This would be the effectual answer to his prayers.

Looking to David, betrayed by the men of Judah, and to Jesus, betrayed by one of his apostles, what can we expect from any who have not set God before them, except ingratitude, treachery, malice, and cruelty? What bonds of nature, or friendship, or gratitude, or covenant, will hold those that have broken through the fear of God?

Selah; Mark this. Let us set God before us at all times, for if we do not, we are in danger of despair.