Godly Contentment
Brethren, this short psalm is call you to be humble and trust in the Lord. C.H. Spurgeon said of this psalm, “It is one of the shortest psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn.” This psalm contrasts the natural human pride with godly humility, faith, and hope in the Lord.
The psalm begins with a declaration by the psalmist that he is not proud (1). He does not have an overly high opinion of himself and exalt himself at every opportunity. He does not have “haughty eyes” that are sinfully ambitious and presumptuous. He does not seek to insert himself into every conversation and every situation. The psalmist understands that there are some things that are too wonderful and incomprehensible for him. What David is talking about is an attitude of humility. He has learned who God truly is and in comparison he is very small.
The psalmist continues by stating that he have composed and quieted his soul (2). He has learned to trust in the Lord no matter what his circumstances are like. Like a young child who lovingly trusts in its mother, David trusts in God. He rests in the character and works of God and is content.
David concludes with a call for all God’s people to hope in Him (3). Just as David has learned contentment and trust in the Lord, so God’s people must do as well. Hope is confident trust in the person and promises of God. To hope in God at all times is to humbly exercise your faith.