Charles H. Spurgeon on Psalms 140:3

Verses 1-5.

1. The particular source of David's affliction: it was from men. In this he was a type of Christ. a) Their wickedness: "the evil man." b) Their violence: "the violent man." c) Their malicious designs: "which imagine mischiefs in their heart." d) Their confederacy: "continually are they gathered together for war." e) Their false accusations: "They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent", etc. (Ps 140:3). f) Their avowed design: "they have purposed to overthrow my goings" (Ps 140:4). g) Their intrigues (Ps 140:5).

2. His universal remedy: "Deliver me, O Lord"; "preserve" and help me. His defence is, a) In God. b) In prayer to God. —G. R.

Verses 1-5. In our position, age, and country, we are not in danger of violence from men, as was David; still, no man is absolutely safe front the danger.

1. Mention some eases not yet impossible. a) A Christian workman, because he cannot comply with unrighteous customs, excites the animosity of his fellow workers. They will do him mischief, spoil his work, steal his tools, speak evil of him, until his employer discharges him to restore peace in the factory. b) A Christian clerk or shop assistant, because his presence is a check upon his sinful companions, may have snares laid for him, etc.

2. Suggest advice, useful, should such a case arise. a) Resort to God with a "Deliver me", and a "Preserve me." b) Maintain integrity and uprightness. c) Should the mischievous ones succeed, still trust in God, who can make their mischief lead to your profit, and make his goodness outwit their devices. —J. F.

The depraved state of the natural man as to his speech.