Psalm 59:11-17 | The Way of Scripture

Psalm 59:11-17

Why do the requests for scattering and consuming stand beside a morning song?

Berean Standard Bible

11 Do not kill them, or my people will forget. Scatter them by Your power, and bring them down, O Lord, our shield. 12 By the sins of their mouths and the words of their lips, let them be trapped in their pride, in the curses and lies they utter. 13 Consume them in wrath; consume them till they are no more, so it may be known to the ends of the earth that God rules over Jacob. Selah 14 They return in the evening, snarling like dogs and prowling around the city. 15 They scavenge for food, and growl if they are not satisfied. 16 But I will sing of Your strength and proclaim Your loving devotion in the morning. For You are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. 17 To You, O my strength, I sing praises, for You, O God, are my fortress, my God of loving devotion.

What is the context?

The speaker asks that enemies not be killed in a way the people quickly forget, then asks for their consuming judgment. The desired outcome includes a public knowledge of God’s rule.

The prowling dogs return, but the speaker’s anticipated morning is filled with song to the God of loving devotion. The contrast is between restless pursuit and a refuge that can sustain praise.

The severe requests are appeals within an endangered person’s prayer. They do not supply a general program for prolonging or inflicting someone’s suffering.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley reads the scattering as a visible reminder of justice and the ending as trusting praise. The differing requests should be heard together rather than hiding one to make the prayer appear simpler or less severe than it is.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

No deeper study linked yet.

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