This verse shows that the faithful should look to God as a refuge in times of danger and hostility.
David, who lived from about 1040 to 970 BC, is traditionally recognized as the author of this psalm. He was the second king of Israel, reigning from approximately 1010 to 970 BC, and originally came from Bethlehem, a small town located six miles south of Jerusalem in the hill country of Judah. As he calls upon God, he pleads, “Rescue me, O LORD, from evil men; Preserve me from violent men” (v.1). David experienced many threats and persecutions throughout his life—ranging from King Saul’s pursuit to the constant warfare against neighboring nations—so his cry for deliverance fits into a historical context where his life was often endangered.
By voicing, “Rescue me, O LORD, from evil men; Preserve me from violent men” (v.1), David shows his trust in God as the ultimate Protector amidst threats, both physical and spiritual. This resonates with other biblical teachings that highlight God’s readiness to hear His people when they call upon Him in times of distress. Jesus Himself speaks of God’s provision and care for those who abide in Him (John 15:7), reinforcing the idea that when believers face the opposition of “evil men,” they can rely on the Lord’s strength and safeguarding.
In repeating the phrase, “Preserve me from violent men” (v.1), David emphasizes the urgent need for God’s sustaining power. This verse points beyond mere avoidance of harm, portraying a search for God-centered peace. Believers today can see in David’s prayer an example of how to remain steadfast when confronted with the chaos or aggression in the world, trusting that God is not only powerful enough to defend His people but compassionate enough to respond to their pleas.
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Psalms 140:1 meaning
David, who lived from about 1040 to 970 BC, is traditionally recognized as the author of this psalm. He was the second king of Israel, reigning from approximately 1010 to 970 BC, and originally came from Bethlehem, a small town located six miles south of Jerusalem in the hill country of Judah. As he calls upon God, he pleads, “Rescue me, O LORD, from evil men; Preserve me from violent men” (v.1). David experienced many threats and persecutions throughout his life—ranging from King Saul’s pursuit to the constant warfare against neighboring nations—so his cry for deliverance fits into a historical context where his life was often endangered.
By voicing, “Rescue me, O LORD, from evil men; Preserve me from violent men” (v.1), David shows his trust in God as the ultimate Protector amidst threats, both physical and spiritual. This resonates with other biblical teachings that highlight God’s readiness to hear His people when they call upon Him in times of distress. Jesus Himself speaks of God’s provision and care for those who abide in Him (John 15:7), reinforcing the idea that when believers face the opposition of “evil men,” they can rely on the Lord’s strength and safeguarding.
In repeating the phrase, “Preserve me from violent men” (v.1), David emphasizes the urgent need for God’s sustaining power. This verse points beyond mere avoidance of harm, portraying a search for God-centered peace. Believers today can see in David’s prayer an example of how to remain steadfast when confronted with the chaos or aggression in the world, trusting that God is not only powerful enough to defend His people but compassionate enough to respond to their pleas.