Psalm 140: Deliver Me from Evil Men
Best for: Protection from evil, justice for the vulnerable
Psalm 140 ("Deliver Me from Evil Men") is a lament psalm best read for protection from evil, justice for the vulnerable. Psalm 140 is David's prayer for rescue from violent, scheming men who sharpen their tongues like serpents and have adders' poison under their lips.
Overview
Psalm 140 is David's prayer for rescue from violent, scheming men who sharpen their tongues like serpents and have adders' poison under their lips. He asks God to keep him from the wicked, not to grant their desires, and to let burning coals fall upon them. Yet David affirms that God maintains the cause of the afflicted and the right of the poor.
The upright shall dwell in God's presence.
Key Verses
"Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man."— Psalm 140:1 (KJV)
"I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the poor."— Psalm 140:12 (KJV)
Key Themes
Reflection
Poisonous speech and violent schemes — David knew them well. But he didn't fight fire with fire; he brought it to God. The afflicted have an Advocate, and the upright will dwell in His presence.
Historical Context
David prays for protection from violent men who 'sharpen their tongues like a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips.' Paul quoted this verse in Romans 3:13 to establish universal human sinfulness. The psalm pairs physical violence with verbal violence, recognizing that words can be as destructive as weapons.
How to Apply This Today
Verbal attacks—gossip, slander, manipulation—are not minor offenses. This psalm treats poisonous speech with the same seriousness as physical violence. Guard your own tongue, and when others attack you verbally, bring it to God as the serious assault it is.
🙏 A Prayer from Psalm 140
Deliver me, O Lord, from evil men; preserve me from violent men. They sharpen their tongues like a serpent; the poison of asps is under their lips. Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked. I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor. The righteous shall give thanks to Your name. Amen.
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Read devotionalFrequently Asked Questions
What is Psalm 140 about?
Psalm 140 is David's prayer for rescue from violent, scheming men who sharpen their tongues like serpents and have adders' poison under their lips. He asks God to keep him from the wicked, not to grant their desires, and to let burning coals fall upon them. Yet David affirms that God maintains the cause of the afflicted and the right of the poor. The upright shall dwell in God's presence.
What does Psalm 140 teach us?
Poisonous speech and violent schemes — David knew them well. But he didn't fight fire with fire; he brought it to God. The afflicted have an Advocate, and the upright will dwell in His presence.
What are the key themes of Psalm 140?
The key themes of Psalm 140 include: Evil, Protection, God's Justice, The Poor.
When should I read Psalm 140?
Psalm 140 is especially meaningful for: Protection from evil, justice for the vulnerable. The overall mood is urgent, trusting.
How can I apply Psalm 140 to my life?
Verbal attacks—gossip, slander, manipulation—are not minor offenses. This psalm treats poisonous speech with the same seriousness as physical violence. Guard your own tongue, and when others attack you verbally, bring it to God as the serious assault it is.
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