God Our Protector: Psalm 140

Introduction: Psalm 140 is a powerful prayer for protection against the wicked and their schemes. The Psalmist, traditionally believed to be King David, cries out to God for deliverance from his enemies. This Psalm is a reminder of the constant battle between good and evil and the need for divine intervention in our lives. The following outline explores the themes and messages of Psalm 140 in detail.

I. The Cry for Help (Psalm 140:1-3)
In the opening verses of Psalm 140, the Psalmist pleads with God to deliver him from evil men who are plotting against him. He describes his enemies as violent and deceitful, using their tongues as weapons to harm him. This cry for help is a reminder of our own need for God’s protection in the face of adversity.
Cross-references:

• • 2 Thessalonians 3:2: “And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith.”
  • Proverbs 12:6: “The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.”
  • James 3:8: “But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”

II. The Trust in God’s Justice (Psalm 140:4-8)
The Psalmist expresses his confidence in God’s ability to bring justice to the wicked. He asks God to protect him from the traps set by his enemies and to cause their plans to backfire. This section reflects the Psalmist’s trust in God’s sovereignty and his belief that evil will not prevail.
Cross-references:

• • Romans 12:19: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
  • Proverbs 26:27: “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them.”
  • 2 Samuel 22:31: “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.”

III. The Prayer for Retribution (Psalm 140:9-11)
In this section, the Psalmist prays for God to bring retribution upon his enemies. He asks for their evil deeds to be turned against them, and for them to be caught in their own traps. This prayer is a reminder that ultimately, God is the judge and will deal with the wicked according to their deeds.
Cross-references:

• • Galatians 6:7: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
  • Proverbs 5:22: “The evil deeds of the wicked ensnare them; the cords of their sins hold them fast.”
  • Revelation 19:2: “for true and just are his judgments. He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants.”

IV. The Assurance of Victory (Psalm 140:12-13)
The Psalmist concludes with a declaration of faith that God will protect the righteous and uphold justice. He expresses his confidence that God will give victory to those who are faithful to him. This final section is a reminder that, in the end, God’s goodness will triumph over evil.
Cross-references:

• • 1 Corinthians 15:57: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
  • Psalm 37:28: “For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be completely destroyed; the offspring of the wicked will perish.”
  • Revelation 21:7: “Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.”

Conclusion: Psalm 140 teaches the concept of the human desire for protection and justice in the face of evil. The Psalmist’s cries for help, trust in God’s justice, prayers for retribution, and assurance of victory are themes that resonate with believers throughout the ages. As we face our own battles against wickedness, Psalm 140 serves as a reminder that God is our refuge and strength, and that ultimately, good will triumph over evil.