What does Psalm 64:5 mean?
David moves from describing his enemies' evil words (Psalm 64:2–3) to describing their evil intention. Scripture does not give an explicit historical event in connection with this psalm. However, there were times in David's life when enemies planned to ambush him (1 Samuel 19:11). In other cases, he heard about plots before they could be completed (2 Samuel 15:13–14). Here, David notes that these men doggedly pursue their plans, presuming that no one—not even God—will take notice until it is too late (Psalm 10:4, 11).Such men fail to realize that the Lord knows the intents of the heart. He recognizes every so-called "secret" sin (Hebrews 4:13; Luke 12:2–3). During the conquest of Jericho, a man named Achan thought no one would know that he stole some of what the Lord had forbidden. With the knowledge of his family, he hid away a beautiful cloak from Shinar, as well as gold and silver (Joshua 7:21). But the Lord knew what Achan had done (Joshua 7:10–11) and exposed him (Joshua 7:14–19). This brought severe punishment to Achan and his family (Joshua 7:24–25).
Psalm 64:1–6 is a prayer for safety from conspiring enemies. David spells out his enemies' crimes, which seem to revolve around plots, evil words, surprise attacks, and deception. They are confident in their planning. These opponents act as if no one will ever find out what they have done.
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.