Psalms 71:10

Psalm 71:10 captures the psalmist's deep distress and vulnerability in the face of relentless opposition. This verse articulates the double threat faced: open verbal attacks and secret, premeditated schemes against his very life.

Context

Psalm 71 is a heartfelt prayer of an aged individual, traditionally attributed to David in his later years, seeking God's deliverance and protection. The psalmist recounts a lifetime of trusting God and now, in old age, feels abandoned by some and actively targeted by enemies. Verse 10 specifically describes the nature of these adversaries: they are not just generally hostile but are actively conspiring against him. The preceding verses establish his long-standing faith and plea for God not to forsake him in his weakness, making the enemies' actions even more painful.

Key Themes

• Adversarial Opposition: The verse clearly identifies the presence of "enemies" who are not passive but actively hostile.
• Verbal Assault: "Speak against me" indicates slander, false accusations, or public denouncement, aimed at discrediting or harming the psalmist's reputation.
• Conspiracy and Treachery: The phrase "lay wait for my soul" and "take counsel together" highlights a more sinister, covert threat. It suggests a deliberate plot, an ambush, or a planned attack on the psalmist's life or well-being. This implies a lack of fair engagement and a reliance on deceit.
• Vulnerability: The psalmist's plea throughout Psalm 71 underscores his feeling of helplessness without divine intervention, especially in old age.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew phrase translated "lay wait for my soul" uses the word nephesh (נֶפֶשׁ), often rendered as "soul," but here it signifies the psalmist's very life, being, or person. The verb for "lay wait" (צָפָה, tsaphah) implies watching, observing, or ambushing, suggesting a strategic and patient malevolence. "Take counsel together" (יָעַץ, ya'ats) describes deliberate planning and plotting, emphasizing the premeditated nature of the enemies' malicious intentions. This isn't just spontaneous anger, but a calculated effort to bring harm.

Practical Application

This verse resonates deeply with anyone who has faced unfair opposition, slander, or covert plots. It reminds us that such experiences are not new and are often part of the human condition, even for the righteous. The psalmist's response, though not explicitly in this verse but throughout Psalm 71, is to turn to God for refuge and deliverance. When facing those who "speak against" us or "take counsel together" to harm us, this verse encourages us to:

• Acknowledge the Threat: It's important to recognize the reality of opposition without being consumed by fear.
• Seek Divine Protection: Like the psalmist, our ultimate security lies in God. We are called to trust in God at all times, pouring out our hearts to Him.
• Pray for Deliverance: The entire psalm is a model of prayer for those facing adversity, seeking God's intervention against those who plot evil.

Psalm 71:10 serves as a powerful reminder of the spiritual battles we may encounter, highlighting the importance of unwavering faith and reliance on God's steadfast love and justice in the face of human malice.