Psalms 34 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
34:1–4
1-4. Even in distress, which excites supplication, there is always matter for praising and thanking God (compare Ep 5:20; Php 4:6).
34:5–7
5-7. God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated. looked--with desire for help. lightened--or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed (Psa 25:2, 3).
34:8
8. taste and see--try and experience.
34:9
9. that fear him--who are pious--fear and love (Pr 1:7; 9:10). saints--consecrated to His service (Is 40:31).
34:10
10. not want any good--"good" is emphatic; they may be afflicted (compare Psa 34:10); but this may be a good (2Co 4:17, 18; He 12:10, 11).
34:11
11. children--subjects of instruction (Pr 1:8, 10).
34:12
12. What man--Whoever desires the blessings of piety, let him attend.
34:13–14
13-14. Sins of thought included in those of speech (Lu 6:45), avoiding evil and doing good in our relations to men are based on a right relation to God.
34:15
15. eyes of the Lord are upon--(Psa 32:8; 33:18).
34:16
16. face ... against--opposed to them (Le 17:10; 20:3). cut off the remembrance--utterly destroy (Psa 109:13).
34:17–18
17-18. Humble penitents are objects of God's special tender regard (Psa 51:19; Is 57:15).
34:20
20. bones--framework of the body.
34:21–22
21-22. Contrast in the destiny of righteous and wicked; the former shall be delivered and never come into condemnation (Joh 5:24; Ro 8:1); the latter are left under condemnation and desolate.