Psalm 140:8
ESV
Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah
NIV
Do not grant the wicked their desires, Lord; do not let their plans succeed.
NASB
Do not grant, Lord, the desires of the wicked; Do not bring about his evil planning, so that they are not exalted. Selah
CSB
Lord, do not grant the desires of the wicked; do not let them achieve their goals. Otherwise, they will become proud. Selah
NLT
Lord, do not let evil people have their way. Do not let their evil schemes succeed, or they will become proud. Interlude
KJV
Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.
NKJV
Do not grant, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; Do not further his wicked scheme, Lest they be exalted. Selah
What does Psalm 140:8 mean?
Please see our chapter commentary on Psalm 140; verse-level content coming soon!Psalm 140:6–8 repeats David's request to be spared death at the hands of conspiring enemies (Psalm 140:4–5). He looks back on the Lord's provision in prior battles (1 Samuel 17:34–37; 2 Samuel 8:14) and expresses confidence. David's prayer is not merely to spare his own life, but also to prevent evil men from attaining success through sin.
David prays for rescue from wicked and bloodthirsty enemies. He suggests violent conspiracies and traps, including false words. These enemies are plotting for his death, so he asks God for protection. This prayer comes with confidence that the Lord will grant David's request. David also asks the Lord to judge these evil opponents: to make them suffer defeat and death. This is also expressed with confidence that God will do what is right and care for the weak.
