Psalm 80 - Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible

The psalmist complains of the miseries of the church.

He that dwelleth upon the mercy-seat, is the good Shepherd of his people. But we can neither expect the comfort of his love, nor the protection of his arm, unless we partake of his converting grace. If he is really angry at the prayers of his people, it is because, although they pray, their ends are not right, or there is some secret sin indulged in them, or he will try their patience and perseverance in prayer. When God is displeased with his people, we must expect to see them in

tears, and their enemies in triumph. There is no salvation but from God's favour; there is no conversion to God but by his own grace. (Ps 80:8-16)