Psalms 140–141

Psalms 140 and 141 are two companion psalms attributed to David, both fundamentally concerned with the power and impact of words, but they serve distinct purposes in prayer and spiritual reflection.

Psalm 140 is an imprecatory psalm, where David prays for deliverance from evil and violent men who plot harm against him. It is a cry for justice and protection in the face of slander, deceit, and violence. David asks God to guard him from the harm of the wicked, prevent their schemes, and bring about justice for the afflicted and poor. The psalm concludes with confident assurance that God will uphold the cause of the righteous and vindicate those who are upright in heart.

Key themes in Psalm 140 include:

  • Deliverance from plots and snares of enemies.
  • Protection from violent and deceitful people.
  • A call for God’s intervention to thwart the plans of the wicked.
  • Confidence in God's justice and care for the oppressed.

Psalm 141, in contrast, is an imploratory psalm focusing more on internal spiritual discipline, particularly the control of speech and the heart’s inclination. David prays that God would keep watch over his mouth and lips, preventing him from speaking evil or joining in sinful deeds. The psalm is a prayer for purity in speech and desire, asking that his prayer be like incense before God and that he not delight in wickedness. It also seeks correction from the righteous and protection from the influence of sinners.

Key themes in Psalm 141 include:

  • Prayer as a pure offering to God.
  • Guarding one’s speech from evil words.
  • Rejecting pleasure in sin and association with lawlessness.
  • Desire for correction and mercy from the righteous.

Together, these psalms form a balanced spiritual plea: Psalm 140 expresses a fervent call for protection and justice against external enemies, while Psalm 141 focuses on internal vigilance over one’s words and heart, seeking holiness and divine help to avoid sinning with the mouth.

Scholars and pastors note the deep connection between these psalms, with many verses in Psalm 141 echoing themes or words from Psalm 140, reinforcing the importance of speech in both prayer and daily conduct. This pairing accentuates the significance of words — both in the prayers we offer and the way we live — highlighting that speech can either bring life or destruction.

In summary:

Psalm 140 Psalm 141
Prayer for deliverance from evil men Prayer for control over speech and heart
Focus on external enemies and protection Focus on internal purity and holiness
Calls for God’s justice and intervention Requests for mercy, correction, and guarding of lips
Importunity for God to thwart wicked plans Desire not to delight in sin or evil words

These Psalms offer timeless lessons on spiritual warfare, reliance on God, and the disciplined use of our words.

References:
Bible Gateway (NKJV)
Orthodox Way of Life (commentaries)
Lifespring Media Bible study
Enduring Word Bible Commentary
A Little Perspective (chiastic structure)
Skip Heitzig sermons and teaching on Psalms 140-141

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