Psalm 44
This psalm was perhaps composed on the same occasion as the 60th, and may have a prophetic view to the after distresses of the Jews in the time of Rehoboam, 2 Chron. 12; of Jehoram, 2 Chron. 21; of Ahaz, 2 Chron. 28; of Hezekiah, 2 Kings 18-19; and during the Chaldean captivity, Syro-Grecian oppression, etc.; and all these as typical of the distresses of the gospel church under heathens and Anti-Christians. It relates chiefly to the church, and contains, (1.) Thankful acknowledgments of what the Lord had done for her in former periods, as her God, her king, her joy, her praise, ver. 1-8. (2.) Sorrowful complaints of divine desertion; and of the prevalent power, cruelty, and derisive contempt of enemies, ver. 9-16. (3.) Solemn protestation of continued integrity, and of constant adherence to the Lord's way, amidst these manifold calamities, ver. 17-22. (4.) Strong cries, with supplications and tears to God, for his merciful appearance for and granting her relief, ver. 23-26.
In singing this, let me rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Let me rejoice in what the Lord hath wrought for his people, in any former period; and in all their afflictions let me be afflicted. Let me give the Lord no rest, till he make his church a joy in the whole earth.