Psalm 64:7 - Printer Friendly

ESV: But God shoots his arrow at them; they are wounded suddenly.

NIV: But God will shoot them with his arrows; they will suddenly be struck down.

NASB: But God will shoot an arrow at them; Suddenly they will be wounded.

CSB: But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly, they will be wounded.

NLT: But God himself will shoot them with his arrows, suddenly striking them down.

KJV: But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; suddenly shall they be wounded.

NKJV: But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; Suddenly they shall be wounded.

David referred to the idea that his enemies attempted to catch him by surprise (Psalm 64:4). Their slander (Psalm 64:2–3) and well-planned schemes (Psalm 64:5–6) were meant to destroy David and leave his enemies without blame. Here, David indicates that the Lord God would reverse those fortunes (Proverbs 29:6; Psalm 7:16). Earthly enemies may be cunning and strong, but David was confident that God was all-knowing, all-powerful, and just. He trusted the Lord to rescue him and take vengeance on his enemies. Their own words will condemn them (Psalm 5:10; 64:8).

It is tempting for a believer to retaliate when someone purposely harms him. It is human nature to want to get even: to settle the score. However, it is best to leave matters in the Lord's hands. Not only is God much more capable than are we, but vengeance is also meant to be His right, alone. Romans 12:14 commands: "Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them." Verse 17 instructs: "Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all." Verse 19 counsels: "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'"

Psalm 64:7–10 follows descriptions of David's enemies and their plans. Now, he reveals the result: that God will turn plots against the plotters and make them fearful examples for the rest of the world. Psalm 64 ends with the theme of the Lord's retributive justice and how God's people should respond to it.

David prays for rescue from his enemies. He accuses them of slanderous and evil words, aimed at his own destruction. These men think they are hidden and that their plots will not be uncovered. Yet David trusts that the Lord will expose evil and make an example of these wicked attackers. This is cause for all believers to trust in God and praise Him.

Unlike some psalms which mention God's judgment on David's enemies, this psalm is not explicitly connected to any moment in David's life. Themes of ambush, conspiracy, and lies suggest his experiences with both Saul (1 Samuel 19:11) and Absalom (2 Samuel 15:13–14). This song repeats themes common to David's writing, such as his faith that God will expose his enemies and make examples of them to the world (Psalm 40:3; 52:6–7; 58:10–11).

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.