Psalms 139:19

Context of Psalms 139:19

Psalms 139 is a profound and deeply personal prayer of David, a masterful meditation on God's omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence. Having just marveled at God's intimate knowledge and presence throughout his life (Psalms 139:1-18), David shifts abruptly in verse 19. This sudden turn reveals a righteous indignation against those who actively oppose God and His ways. It is a passionate outburst born not of personal vengeance, but of zeal for God's holiness and justice, contrasting God's perfect character with the egregious evil of the wicked.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Justice and Judgment: The opening phrase, "Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God," expresses David's absolute confidence in God's ultimate justice. This declaration reflects a deep conviction in God's ultimate justice and divine judgment against those who persist in rebellion and wickedness. It is an affirmation that God will not allow evil to triumph indefinitely.
• Abhorrence of Evil: David's fervent plea, "depart from me therefore, ye bloody men," showcases his deep repulsion for the wicked and their actions. This is not merely a desire for physical separation but a spiritual and moral distancing from those whose lives are characterized by violence and deceit.
• Zeal for God's Honor: The context suggests that David's anger is not primarily for himself but for God. The "wicked" and "bloody men" are those who defy God and His righteous standards. David desires their removal because their presence and actions dishonor God.
• Separation from Ungodliness: David's plea to "depart from me" underscores the biblical principle of separation from ungodly influences. It highlights the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between righteousness and wickedness in one's life.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "bloody men" in the KJV translates the Hebrew אֲנְשֵׁי דָמִים (anshei damim), which literally means "men of blood." This idiom refers to individuals characterized by violence, bloodshed, deceit, and often, a complete disregard for human life and God's law. It's a strong descriptor emphasizing their moral corruption and destructive nature. David's use of this term underscores the severity of their actions and the extent of his revulsion.

Practical Application and Reflection

Psalms 139:19 offers several enduring lessons for believers today:

• Trust in God's Sovereignty: Even when evil seems to prevail, this verse reminds us to trust that God is a just judge and will ultimately deal with all wickedness in His perfect timing.
• Moral Discernment: It encourages us to develop a keen sense of discernment between good and evil, and to abhor what is wicked (Romans 12:9).
• Pursuit of Holiness: David's desire for separation from "bloody men" serves as a call for believers to actively pursue holiness and righteousness, distancing themselves from influences that lead to sin or compromise their faith. This doesn't mean isolating from all non-believers, but refusing to participate in or condone their ungodly practices.
• Righteous Indignation: While personal vengeance is forbidden, the verse validates a righteous indignation against evil and a fervent prayer for God's justice and kingdom to prevail on earth.