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Psalms 140

13 verses

TL;DR

A plea for divine protection against evil enemies and a declaration of faith in God’s justice.

Summary

In Psalm 140 the psalmist urgently calls on the LORD to deliver him from violent, scheming adversaries. He describes their treachery with vivid images of serpentine tongues and poisoned words. He warns of the snares and nets set by the proud, and implores the LORD to keep him safe from these traps. The psalmist affirms his trust in God’s strength, acknowledging that God covers him in battle. He petitions that the wicked’s desires be denied and that they fall into burning coals and pits. The psalm concludes with confidence that the LORD upholds the afflicted and the poor, and that the righteous will give thanks and dwell in God’s presence.

Outline
  1. Prayer for protection from hostile enemies
  2. Affirmation of faith in God’s justice and deliverance
  3. Confidence in God’s support for the afflicted and righteous
Themes
divine protectionjustice against evilfaith and confidence in God
Keywords
evilwickedenemyjusticeprotectionfaithrighteousness
People
LORD
Places
Things
snarenetfirepitpoisoned tonguestrength of salvation
Key Verses
  • Psalms 140:3: illustrates the cunning danger of enemies with venomous tongues
  • Psalms 140:5: conveys the perilous traps set by the proud
  • Psalms 140:12: expresses confidence that God upholds the afflicted and the poor
Questions
  • How does the psalmist’s depiction of enemies influence his sense of safety?
  • In what ways does the psalm encourage believers to respond to injustice?
  • What does the psalm suggest about the relationship between personal prayer and divine justice?
Sentiment

mixed
the psalm blends urgent plea for protection with hopeful confidence in divine justice.