Psalm 140

Read Psalm 140

“Deliver me, O Lord, from evil men.” Though David's songs may seem to be just individual testimonies, they have been included by God in Israel's songbook. Especially when they carry the introductory instruction, “To the Choirmaster,” we know that they were intended to be sung by more than just one man. David's life struggles were appropriate for the nation as they approached the Lord in song.

The king knew that there were “evil men” who needed to be stopped. He asked the Lord to come to his aid in a just cause. These arrogant and violent adversaries were not friends of the Lord's anointed king. They hoped to eliminate him. “They have set snares for me.”

David turned toward his powerful God—the God of Israel. He asked for deliverance from these dangerous people. He knew that his life depended upon the Lord's power, but he had another motive beyond his own survival. The king was eager to see God's Name lifted high. “Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted!”

The adversaries who insist that they be worshiped and obeyed as gods are antichrists. The Lord will not let such foes prosper forever. Their own lips that utter slander and blasphemy will be silenced. They will not be established in the kingdom of resurrection where Jesus will reign forever. These utterly deluded enemies will be destroyed “speedily.”

Meanwhile, the Lord will “maintain the cause of the afflicted.” He will not allow the pompous gangsters that seem to rule over this dying world to win. He “will execute justice for the needy.” The Son of God will rule on behalf of His chosen flock. “The righteous shall give thanks to Your name; the upright shall dwell in Your presence.”

Prayer from A Book of Prayers

Great God, help us in times of danger. We know that there are many wicked and violent men who create snares of trouble and distraction for us. None of them is a match for You. You will help us in the worst situation. Deal with our enemies according to Your ways. You know what to do for the humble who trust in You, and You know how to repay proud men and angels who seek the destruction of Your servants.