What does Psalm 10:4 mean?

The wicked person David describes (Psalm 10:3) is too proud to admit that God exists. He believes he has no need of God. He even denies God's existence. Of course, if a person denies the existence of God, he disregards the sanctity of human life. Because he thinks there is no Creator, he sees no reason to value human life. Therefore, in part, such a person is willing to prey on the poor and the weak for their own gain (Psalm 10:2).

The phrase, "In the pride of his face," is similar to the common English expression "turns up his nose." The wicked person sneers at the idea of God, like an arrogant person wrinkling up their nose, closing their eyes, and looking away. Such a person reflects the attitude of Lucifer, the Devil, who tried unsuccessfully to usurp God's throne. The wicked person places himself on the throne.

Many who deny God's existence are successful and intelligent. Nevertheless, by declaring, "There is no God," the wicked person takes a position which is inherently foolish. Psalm 14:1 says, "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" The same verse indicts atheistic fools as corrupt workers of abominable deeds. Later in this same psalm, however, the wicked person will imply that God forgets or does not notice their sin (Psalm 10:11). Those who reject God often waver between outright atheism and remaking Him according to their own preferences.