Psalms 59:3-8
Verse 3. For, lo, they lie in wait for my soul] For my life. See the passages referred to above. Verse 4. They run and prepare themselves] They leave no stone unturned that they may effect my destruction and prevent the building. Verse 5. O Lord God of hosts] This was a proper view to take of God. when Israel, a handful of poor distressed captives were surrounded and oppressed by the heathen chiefs above mentioned, and their several tribes. But Jehovah, God of hosts, was the God of Israel; and hence Israel had little to fear. Be not merciful to any wicked transgressors.] Do not favour the cause of these wicked men. They are bogedey aven, "changers of iniquity:" they go through the whole round of evil; find out and exercise themselves in all the varieties of transgression. How exactly does this apply to Nehemiah's foes! They sought, by open attack, wiles, flattery, foul speeches, fair speeches, threats, and ambuscades, to take away his life. Do not show them favour, that they may not succeed in their wicked designs. The prayer here is exactly the same in sentiment with that of Nehemiah, Ne 4:4, 5. Hear, our God, for we are despised; turn their reproach upon their own heads;-cover not their iniquity, "and let not their sin be blotted out." Verse 6. They return at evening] When the beasts of prey leave their dens, and go prowling about the cities and villages to get offal, and entrap domestic animals, these come about the city to see if they may get an entrance, destroy the work, and those engaged in it. Verse 7. They belch out with their mouth] They use the lowest insult, the basest abuse. They deal in sarcasm, ridicule, slander, and lies. Verse 8. Thou, O Lord, shalt laugh at them] They have mocked us; God will turn them and their schemes into ridicule and contempt: "Thou shalt have all these heathenish nations in derision."
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