Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 64

David’s Prayer for Protection from Secret EnemiesIn this psalm, David brings his danger before God and describes the wickedness of his enemies. He asks God to protect him and deal with those who secretly plot against him. David shows us that it is right to pray for God’s help when we are in trouble, especially when others are planning evil in secret.v. 1: David prays, Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the enemy . He asks God to keep him safe from those who want to harm him and from the fear that comes with being in danger. It is not a lack of courage to pray for protection; even great believers, like Jacob, prayed for help when they were afraid (Genesis 32:11; Esther 7:2,4 ).

v. 2: David continues, Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity . He asks God to protect him from hidden plots and from people who secretly plan to attack him. David knows that evil plans often begin in secret meetings and end in open trouble.

v. 3: He describes his enemies: Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words . Their words are as sharp and dangerous as swords and arrows. They use lies, insults, and slander to hurt others, especially those who are innocent and upright (James 3:5; Deuteronomy 27:24 ).

v. 4: David says, That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not . His enemies attack without warning and without fear of God. They are confident in their evil ways, not caring that God sees everything.

v. 5: He adds, They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say, Who shall see them? . The wicked work together, making careful plans to do harm. They think that no one, not even God, will notice what they are doing. Their hearts are hardened in their evil.

v. 6: David explains further, They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward thought of every one of them, and the heart, is deep . His enemies go to great lengths to find ways to accuse him or cause trouble. They use all their energy and skill to do evil, showing how deep and stubborn their wickedness is. Their hearts are like the old serpent—full of cunning and malice.

God's Judgments on PersecutorsIn these verses, David describes how God will judge those who secretly attack the righteous. Even though his enemies act in secret and are confident, David trusts that God will punish them in ways that match their sins. God’s justice will be seen by all, and it will lead people to fear Him and give Him glory. The righteous will find comfort and joy when they see God’s justice at work.v. 7: David says, But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; suddenly shall they be wounded . His enemies attacked secretly, but God will attack them directly and suddenly. God’s judgment is sure and hits its mark, bringing surprise and destruction to the wicked (Psalm 7:13; Psalm 21:12 ).

v. 8: He adds, So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away . The evil words and lies that his enemies used against David will come back on their own heads. Their slander will bring them shame and judgment. People around them will see this and avoid them, just as others ran from the tents of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram (Numbers 16:27; 1 Samuel 31:7 ).

v. 9: David explains, And all men shall fear, and shall declare the work of God; for they shall wisely consider of his doing . When people see God’s judgments, they will learn to respect His power and justice. They will talk about what God has done and understand that He is in control. This helps others to think seriously about God’s actions and to honor Him (Hosea 14:9 ).

v. 10: Finally, The righteous shall be glad in the Lord