Psalms 140:8

Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.

Psalms 140:8 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 140 is a prayer of David for deliverance from enemies. He wrote it while facing people who planned evil against him. The psalm shows both his danger and his trust in God. In this verse, David asks the Lord to stop the wicked from reaching their goals. He knows their hearts are set on harm, and he turns to God rather than to his own strength.

Meaning

“Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked” means David pleads with God not to let evil people get what they want. “Further not his wicked device” asks God to block their plans. The word “device” means a scheme or plot. David knows that if the wicked succeed, they will become proud and think too highly of themselves. The word “Selah” invites the reader to pause and reflect on God’s power and our dependence on Him.

Biblical connections

This verse shows that God is sovereign. The wicked cannot carry out their plans unless He allows it. David’s confidence is not in his own strength but in the Lord, who “maintains the cause of the afflicted” (Psalm 140:12). That later verse reminds us that God cares for the helpless and will bring justice. The psalmist also calls God “the strength of my salvation” and “a shield” in battle (Psalm 140:7). So the prayer in verse 8 rests on a firm foundation: God is both protector and judge.

Application

When we face harm or injustice, we can pray like David. We do not need to take revenge. Instead, we ask God to protect us and to stop evil plans. We also learn to examine our own hearts. Success can lead to pride, so we must stay humble and remember that every good thing comes from God. This prayer teaches us to depend on God rather than on our own efforts. It also reminds us that God hears the cries of the afflicted and will act in His time.

Reflection

This prayer is not about personal vengeance. It is a request for God’s justice to prevail. David wants the wicked to be restrained, not destroyed out of hatred. His example teaches us to depend on God in every conflict. We can trust that He sees all things and will act at the right time. Our part is to cry out to Him and remain faithful. When we are tempted to take matters into our own hands, we can remember that God alone holds the outcome. He is able to humble the proud and lift up the lowly.