God’s people today can confidently rely on the LORD’s protection against evil.
“Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; Do not promote his evil device, That they not be exalted. Selah.” (v.8)
David (c. 1010-970 BC), the likely author of this psalm, fervently prays that God would thwart the plans of the ungodly and prevent them from triumphing over the righteous. By pleading, “Do not grant … the desires of the wicked,” David acknowledges both the sovereign power of the LORD and the reality that human hearts can harbor destructive schemes. The psalmist’s appeal here places his hope squarely on God’s protective care, confident that the LORD desires to rescue His people whenever they call upon Him (Psalms 50:15).
The phrase “Do not promote his evil device” speaks to an urgent need for God’s intervention, revealing the psalmist’s faith that the Almighty not only hears this plea but also can act to prevent harm. Just as other passages in the Psalms remind us of God’s faithfulness and deliverance, Psalm 140:8 helps believers see that whenever evil seems to gain influence, the LORD stands ready to defend those who trust Him. In the broader narrative of Scripture, this theme echoes the New Testament call to place our burdens on Christ (1 Peter 5:7), knowing that He can lift us up in His perfect timing.
By adding “that they not be exalted,” the verse culminates in a humble request that God alone be honored rather than those who devise wicked plots. This emphasis ultimately points to the LORD’s righteousness, reminding readers that a genuine desire for God’s glory supersedes personal vengeance (Romans 12:19). Through prayer that seeks God’s righteousness, the faithful can entrust every outcome to His just and loving rule.
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Psalms 140:8 meaning
“Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; Do not promote his evil device, That they not be exalted. Selah.” (v.8)
David (c. 1010-970 BC), the likely author of this psalm, fervently prays that God would thwart the plans of the ungodly and prevent them from triumphing over the righteous. By pleading, “Do not grant … the desires of the wicked,” David acknowledges both the sovereign power of the LORD and the reality that human hearts can harbor destructive schemes. The psalmist’s appeal here places his hope squarely on God’s protective care, confident that the LORD desires to rescue His people whenever they call upon Him (Psalms 50:15).
The phrase “Do not promote his evil device” speaks to an urgent need for God’s intervention, revealing the psalmist’s faith that the Almighty not only hears this plea but also can act to prevent harm. Just as other passages in the Psalms remind us of God’s faithfulness and deliverance, Psalm 140:8 helps believers see that whenever evil seems to gain influence, the LORD stands ready to defend those who trust Him. In the broader narrative of Scripture, this theme echoes the New Testament call to place our burdens on Christ (1 Peter 5:7), knowing that He can lift us up in His perfect timing.
By adding “that they not be exalted,” the verse culminates in a humble request that God alone be honored rather than those who devise wicked plots. This emphasis ultimately points to the LORD’s righteousness, reminding readers that a genuine desire for God’s glory supersedes personal vengeance (Romans 12:19). Through prayer that seeks God’s righteousness, the faithful can entrust every outcome to His just and loving rule.