Psalms 10

Ps 10 The lament of 9:13-20 continues in Ps 10 (see study note on Pss 9–10), but the mood changes from confident assertion to anguished questioning. The psalmist prays for rescue, believing that the Lord, as a just king, takes care of the needy.10:1 The opening questions set the mood. The Lord does not seem to hear the prayers of his people (22:1, 19; see 2 Kgs 4:27; Isa 1:15).

10:2-11 Wicked and oppressive people might prosper, leaving ugly consequences. Evil can be as dramatic as the psalmist portrays it here, or it could be more subtle.10:2 The wicked brazenly defy God with their acts and speech (17:10; 31:18; 59:12; 73:8; 123:4). Although the Lord will deal with them (31:23), they disturb the righteous (see 5:4-6) prior to their condemnation and judgment.

10:3 Unlike those who have evil desires, the godly wait for justice (10:17).

10:4 God is dead: See 10:11; 14:1.

10:6-7 Despite their evil ways (5:9; 28:3; Rom 3:14), the wicked expect a future free of trouble such as the righteous will enjoy.

10:8 The wicked rely on outright violence (11:5; 37:32) and deception (Prov 12:6; 23:27-28).

10:12-15 With confidence that the wicked will be held responsible for their deeds and that the Lord will care for the helpless, the psalmist prays intensely for rescue from evil.

10:14 Because the Lord cares for the afflicted, he will take note and punish evildoers (see 72:14; 116:15).

10:15 The psalmist strongly invokes a curse as he prays (see “Prayers for Vengeance” Theme Note). • Arms represent an ability to wage war (18:34; 44:3).

10:16 As the true and just king, God will bring the wicked to an end, as he promises (1:6).

10:17-18 The psalmist expresses his confidence in the Lord.

10:18 Mere people misuse their power and enslave the very people God wants them to serve (see 9:19-20; Luke 22:25-26).