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Verse Takeaways
1
The Reality of Spiritual Anguish
Commentators describe the psalmist's state as one of profound anguish. His spirit is 'overwhelmed,' meaning crushed and despairing of human help, while his heart is 'desolate'—empty, lonely, and barren like a desert. Some scholars even translate 'desolate' as 'astonished,' suggesting a state of shock at his suffering. This verse validates the reality of deep emotional and spiritual pain in the life of a believer.
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Psalms
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Commentaries
7
Albert Barnes
On Psalms 143:4
18th Century
Theologian
Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me - See the notes at (Psalms 77:3). Compare (Psalms 42:5–7). His…
Charles Ellicott
On Psalms 143:4
19th Century
Bishop
See Psalms 142:3, and Notes.
Is desolate. —Or, more literally, as in Isaiah 59:16; Isaiah 63:5, and others, …
Charles Spurgeon
On Psalm 143:3–4
19th Century
Preacher
For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have bee…
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John Calvin
On Psalms 143:4
16th Century
Theologian
And my spirit, etc. Until now he has spoken of the external troubles; now he acknowledges the feebleness of his spirits, from which it is …
John Gill
On Psalms 143:4
17th Century
Pastor
Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me Covered over with grief, borne down with sorrow, ready to sink and fail; (
Matthew Henry
On Psalms 143:1–6
17th Century
Minister
We have no righteousness of our own to plead; therefore, we must plead God's righteousness and the word of promise which He has freely given us and…