Psalms 20 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
20:1
1. hear thee--graciously (Psa 4:1). name of--or manifested perfections, as power, wisdom, c. defend thee--set thee on high from danger (Psa 9:9; 18:3).
20:2
2. strengthen thee--sustain in conflict; even physical benefits may be included, as courage for war, c., as such may proceed from a sense of divine favor, secured in the use of spiritual privileges.
20:3
3. all thy offerings--or gifts, vegetable offerings. accept--literally, "turn to ashes" (compare 1Ki 18:38). Selah--(See on Psa 3:2).
20:4
4. thy counsel--or plan.
20:5
5. salvation--that wrought and experienced by him. set up our banners--(Nu 2:3, 10). In usual sense, or, as some render, "may we be made great."
20:6
6. He speaks as if suddenly assured of a hearing. his anointed--not only David personally, but as the specially appointed head of His Church. his holy heaven--or, literally, "the heavens of His holiness," where He resides (Psa 2:6; 11:4). saving ... hand--His power which brings salvation.
20:7
7. remember--or cause to remember, mention thankfully (1Sa 17:45; Psa 33:16).
20:8
8. They--that is, who trust in horses, c. stand upright--literally, "we have straightened ourselves up from our distress and fears."
20:9
9. let the king hear--as God's representative, delivered to deliver. Perhaps a better sense is, "Lord, save the king; hear us when we call," or pray.