Psalms 59:11

Slay them not, lest my people forget: scatter them by thy power; and bring them downe, O Lord our shield. Psalms 59:11 (KJV)

Psalm 59 is attributed to David and was written during a time when Saul sent men to watch David’s house in order to kill him. David composed this psalm as a prayer for deliverance and protection from his enemies.

In the first clause, “Slay them not, lest my people forget,” David appeals to God not to kill his enemies immediately. He is aware that God’s judgment can be severe, but he prays that God would spare them for a time so that the people would not forget the wickedness of the foes and the way God delivered David. The second clause, “scatter them by thy power,” expresses David’s request that God disperse his enemies, breaking their unity and effectiveness. He trusts that God’s power can thwart their plans and scatter them. The final clause, “bring them down, O Lord our shield,” acknowledges God as David’s shield and protector, and it reflects his confidence that God will bring down those who rise against him.

The passage teaches several lessons. First, it reminds believers to remember God’s deliverance; if enemies are removed too quickly, the people may lose sight of the wickedness they faced and the faithfulness of God. Second, it encourages trust in God’s power, recognizing Him as a shield who can intervene, fight our battles, and bring down opposition. Third, it calls for a heart of forgiveness, as David’s prayer seeks sparing rather than immediate destruction, revealing a desire for repentance rather than vengeance. Finally, the verse affirms God’s sovereignty; David acknowledges that God alone controls the fate of his enemies and that believers should trust in His wisdom and timing when confronted with challenges.