Psalm 5:10

Declare them guilty, O God; let them fall by their own devices. Drive them out for their many transgressions, for they have rebelled against You.

Study Bible

Declare them guilty
The phrase "Declare them guilty" in Psalm 5:10 is a plea for divine justice. The Hebrew root word here is "אַשֵּׁם" (asham), which means to be guilty or to bear guilt. In the context of ancient Israel, guilt was not just a legal status but a moral and spiritual condition. The psalmist is asking God to pronounce a verdict on the wicked, reflecting a deep trust in God's righteous judgment. This plea aligns with the broader biblical theme that God is the ultimate judge who discerns the hearts and actions of all people.

O God
The invocation "O God" is a direct appeal to the divine, emphasizing the personal relationship between the psalmist and the Creator. The Hebrew word used here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), a plural form that denotes majesty and power. This name for God underscores His sovereignty and authority over all creation. In the historical context, calling upon God in this manner reflects a deep-seated belief in His ability to intervene in human affairs and execute justice.

Let them fall by their own devices
The phrase "Let them fall by their own devices" suggests a poetic justice where the wicked are ensnared by their own schemes. The Hebrew word for "devices" is "מוֹעֵצוֹת" (moetzot), which can also mean plans or counsels. This reflects a biblical principle found throughout Scripture, where evil intentions often backfire on the perpetrator. The psalmist's request is not for arbitrary punishment but for a natural consequence of the wicked's actions, highlighting the moral order established by God.

Scatter them
"Scatter them" is a call for the dispersion and defeat of the wicked. The Hebrew root "פּוּץ" (puts) means to scatter or disperse. This imagery is often used in the Old Testament to describe the breaking up of enemy forces or the dispersion of those who oppose God's will. Historically, scattering was a form of divine judgment, as seen in the Tower of Babel narrative. The psalmist's use of this term underscores a desire for God to disrupt the unity and strength of those who do evil.

in the multitude of their transgressions
The phrase "in the multitude of their transgressions" highlights the abundance and severity of the sins committed by the wicked. The Hebrew word "רַב" (rav) means multitude or abundance, and "פֶּשַׁע" (pesha) refers to transgressions or rebellions. This indicates a willful and repeated defiance against God's laws. The psalmist is emphasizing that the sheer volume of their sins warrants divine intervention and judgment.

for they have rebelled against You
The concluding phrase "for they have rebelled against You" identifies the root cause of the wicked's guilt: rebellion against God. The Hebrew word "מָרָה" (marah) means to rebel or be contentious. This rebellion is not just against human authority but against God Himself, which is the ultimate act of defiance. In the biblical narrative, rebellion against God leads to separation from His presence and blessings. The psalmist's acknowledgment of this rebellion serves as a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God's commandments and the inevitable consequences that follow.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
- The author of the Psalm, who is seeking God's justice against his enemies.

2. God
- The righteous judge whom David appeals to for justice.

3. Enemies of David
- Those who are guilty of transgressions and rebellion against God.

4. Rebellion
- The act of defying God, which is central to the plea for divine justice.

5. Transgressions
- The sins and wrongdoings of the enemies, which are the basis for David's plea.

Teaching Points

God's Justice is Righteous
God is a righteous judge who will not let sin go unpunished. We can trust in His justice even when we face opposition.

Consequences of Rebellion
Rebellion against God leads to downfall. This serves as a warning to examine our own lives for areas of disobedience.

Prayer for Deliverance
Like David, we can pray for deliverance from those who oppose us, trusting God to handle the situation according to His will.

Self-Reflection on Transgressions
It's important to reflect on our own transgressions and seek repentance, knowing that God is merciful to those who turn back to Him.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even when surrounded by adversaries, we can have peace knowing that God is sovereign and in control of all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's justice influence the way you pray about difficult situations or people in your life?

2. In what ways can you identify with David's plea for justice, and how can you apply this to your own experiences with opposition?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for your actions. How does this relate to the concept of falling by one's own devices?

4. How can you ensure that your actions align with God's will to avoid rebellion against Him?

5. What steps can you take to trust in God's sovereignty when dealing with adversaries or challenging circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 7:9
- This verse also speaks of God as a righteous judge who tests the hearts and minds, emphasizing the theme of divine justice.

Proverbs 11:5-6
- These verses discuss the consequences of wickedness and the righteousness that delivers from death, paralleling the idea of falling by one's own devices.

Romans 1:18-32
- This passage describes the wrath of God against all ungodliness and unrighteousness, similar to the rebellion mentioned in Psalm 5:10.

Galatians 6:7
- The principle of sowing and reaping is evident here, as it relates to the consequences of one's actions, akin to falling by one's own devices.