Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 140

David’s Prayer for Deliverance from Evil MenThis psalm shows how David suffered from enemies who hated and attacked him, just as Jesus suffered before He was exalted. David describes his enemies clearly so we can see how dangerous and wicked they were. He turns to God for protection, trusting that God will keep him safe from their evil plans.v. 1-2: David calls his main enemy “the evil man” and “the man of violence,” likely referring to Saul. But there were many others who worked together against him. They were very crafty and made careful plans to hurt David, to ruin his life and reputation. They acted like hunters, setting traps and snares in secret. These enemies were proud and confident, but their pride would only lead them to destruction (Proverbs 16:18 ).

v. 3: David says, “They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders’ poison is under their lips” . Their words were as dangerous as snake venom. They used lies, gossip, and cruel words to secretly harm David, and tried to spread their hatred to others. A wicked tongue shows a wicked heart.

v. 4-5: These enemies were united in their attack against David. They plotted together, proud and sure they would succeed. They set traps for him, hoping he would fall without even knowing it. But David knows that those who are proud and evil are getting closer to ruin.

v. 6-7: Instead of fighting back with words, David turns to God. He says, “You are my God” (Psalm 140:6 ). This means God is his protector and hope. David trusts that God will listen to his prayers and save him. He remembers how God has helped him before, even in battle, protecting his head and life. Because of God’s past faithfulness, David is confident that God can save him now, no matter what danger he faces.

Shame and Confusion of PersecutorsIn these verses, David looks ahead with faith, trusting that God will bring shame and defeat to those who persecute him. He prays that the evil plans of his enemies will fail, and he believes that God will protect the innocent and punish the wicked. David’s hope is in God’s justice, knowing that the upright will be safe in God’s presence.v. 8: David prays that the Lord

v. 9-10: David asks that those who surround him with evil will suffer the results of their own words. He says, “May the mischief of their own lips cover them!” (Psalm 140:9 ). David prays that burning coals will fall on them, and that they will be thrown into fire or a deep pit, never to rise again. This means that God’s judgment will be certain and complete, just like the destruction of Sodom (Genesis 19:24 ). Those who plot evil will see their own plans come back to hurt them (Psalm 7:15-16 ).

v. 11: David says that liars and evil people will not last. “Let not a slanderer be established in the earth; let evil hunt the violent man to overthrow him” . Those who use their words to hurt others will be brought down. Troubles and punishment will catch up with people who do evil.

v. 12-13: David is sure that God will defend those who are wronged. He says, “I know that the Lord