Psalm 140 is a plea for God’s protection from evil and wicked people. David calls out to God, asking for deliverance from those who seek to harm him. The psalm expresses both the anguish of facing opposition and the trust in God’s justice. It highlights the importance of seeking God’s protection when facing enemies, both physical and spiritual.
Background of Psalm 140
This psalm is attributed to David and is believed to have been written during a time of danger and distress, possibly during his time fleeing from Saul or another hostile force. David appeals to God as his protector, calling for justice upon the wicked while asking for refuge and help.
What Does Psalm 140 Mean?
In this psalm, David highlights the challenges he faces from those who desire to harm him. He cries out to God, knowing that only God can provide true protection and justice. The psalm concludes with a note of confidence that God will defend the righteous and bring about justice for those who are wronged.
Verse Mapping Psalm 140:1
“Rescue me, Lord, from evil people; protect me from violent men.” (CSB)
Word Study
Rescue – To deliver from danger or harm.
Evil people – Those who act in opposition to God’s will.
Violent men – People who seek to cause harm or destruction.
Cross-References
Psalm 17:8 – “Protect me as the pupil of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings.”
Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in Your hands; deliver me from the hand of my enemies.”
Paraphrase
Lord, deliver me from evil people and protect me from those who are violent and seek to harm me.
Application
When facing danger or opposition, we can turn to God for protection and trust that He will deliver us from evil.
Verse Mapping Psalm 140:3
“They make their tongues as sharp as a snake’s; venom is under their lips.” (CSB)
Word Study
Tongues – Words, speech.
Sharp – Cutting, harmful.
Venom – Poisonous, harmful words or actions.
Cross-References
James 3:8 – “But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
Psalm 64:3 – “They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim bitter words like arrows.”
Paraphrase
They use their words like a snake, speaking harmful and poisonous things.
Application
Be mindful of the power of words. Just as a snake’s venom is deadly, words can cause harm if used maliciously. We should seek to speak words of life and truth.
Verse Mapping Psalm 140:4
“Guard me, Lord, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from violent men who plan to make me stumble.” (CSB)
Word Study
Guard – To watch over, to protect.
Wicked – Those who live in opposition to God’s ways.
Stumble – To fall, to be caused to sin or fail.
Cross-References
Psalm 16:8 – “I keep the Lord in mind always. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”
Psalm 18:3 – “I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I was saved from my enemies.”
Paraphrase
Lord, watch over me and protect me from the wicked who try to make me fall or fail.
Application
We are constantly under attack from the enemy, who seeks to make us stumble in our faith. Trust that God will protect you from spiritual and physical harm.
Verse Mapping Psalm 140:12
“I know that the Lord upholds the cause of the needy and justice for the poor.” (CSB)
Word Study
Upholds – To support, to sustain.
Cause – A reason or justification for action.
Needy – Those in need, those who lack resources or protection.
Justice – Fair treatment, right action.
Cross-References
Psalm 146:7 – “He executes justice for the oppressed, and gives food to the hungry. The Lord frees prisoners.”
Proverbs 31:9 – “Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the cause of the oppressed and needy.”
Paraphrase
I know that God defends the cause of the needy and brings justice to those who are poor and oppressed.
Application
God is a defender of the marginalized and oppressed. We should take heart knowing that He fights for justice and cares deeply for the needy.
Verse Mapping Psalm 140:13
“The righteous will rejoice in the Lord and take refuge in Him; all the upright in heart will offer praise to Him.” (CSB)
Word Study
Righteous – Those who live in alignment with God’s will.
Rejoice – To celebrate, to express joy.
Refuge – A place of safety, protection.
Upright – Those who live with integrity and moral uprightness.
Cross-References
Psalm 5:11 – “But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them shout for joy forever.”
Psalm 32:11 – “Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous ones; shout for joy, all you upright in heart.”
Paraphrase
The righteous will find joy in the Lord, taking refuge in Him, and they will praise Him with all their hearts.
Application
When we face trials, we can find joy in knowing that God is our refuge. His protection and care lead us to worship and praise.
How Can We Apply Psalm 140 Today?
Cry Out for God’s Protection
When faced with danger or opposition, call on God for protection. Trust that He will deliver you from evil and shield you from harm.
Guard Your Words
Be mindful of how you speak, knowing that words have the power to build up or tear down. Speak life and truth, reflecting God’s love in your words.
Trust in God’s Justice
God sees the injustice in the world and will defend those who are oppressed. Trust that He will bring justice to those who are wronged.
A Closing Prayer
Lord, I ask for Your protection from those who seek to harm me, both physically and spiritually. Help me to trust in Your justice and to always seek refuge in You. May my words reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Final Reflection
Psalm 140 teaches us to rely on God for protection against those who seek to harm us. It reminds us that God is our defender and that we can trust in His justice.
Have you ever experienced God’s protection in your life? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear how God has been your refuge.
