34:1 in my mouth. Psalm 34 is an acrostic psalm, with each of its twenty-two verses beginning with the corresponding letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

34:5 were lightened. This unique adjective, “lightened,” has the root meaning of “sparkle.” It is often used to describe a fast-flowing, cascading, sparkling stream of water. Thus, when God answers our prayers in special ways, it results in “sparkling” or “radiant” countenances, as they “light up” with joy.

34:7 angel of the LORD. God’s “innumerable company of angels” (Hebrews 12:22) have been created to serve, among other things, as “ministering spirits” to those who are “heirs of salvation” (Hebrews 1:14).

34:12 desireth life. Psalm 34:12-16 is quoted in I Peter 3:10-12.

34:20 keepeth all his bones. This psalm of “the afflictions of the righteous” (Psalm 34:19) is, in the deepest sense, a Messianic psalm. Contrary to the usual practice in crucifixion, Jesus died before His executioners could break His bones (John 19:33-36).