How does Psalm 10:10 connect with Proverbs 6:16-19 on wickedness? Psalm 10:10—A Snapshot of Predatory Evil “They are crushed and beaten down; the helpless fall by his strong ones.” • The wicked crouch, ambush, and overpower. • Their victims are “helpless,” highlighting a power imbalance. • Violence is cold, calculated, and deliberate. Proverbs 6:16-19—God’s Catalog of Detestable Conduct “There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to Him: 1. haughty eyes, 2. a lying tongue, 3. hands that shed innocent blood, 4. a heart that devises wicked schemes, 5. feet that run swiftly to evil, 6. a false witness who pours out lies, 7. one who stirs up conflict among brothers.” Parallel Lines of Wickedness • Crushing the helpless (Psalm 10:10) = “hands that shed innocent blood.” • Lurking in ambush (10:10 context) = “feet that run swiftly to evil.” • Planning the trap (10:8-10) = “a heart that devises wicked schemes.” • Predatory arrogance (10:2, 6) = “haughty eyes.” • Deceit used to ensnare (10:7) = “a lying tongue” and “false witness.” • Social chaos left behind (10:10 victims) = “one who stirs up conflict.” What Both Passages Reveal • Wickedness is relational—people are the targets, not abstractions. • God is not indifferent; He “hates” such acts (Proverbs 6:16) and will judge (Psalm 10:14-15). • The core issue is the heart: outward violence flows from inward pride and deceit (cf. Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21-23). Implications for Believers • Identify wicked patterns early (Proverbs 4:14-15). • Defend the vulnerable rather than exploit them (Isaiah 1:17; James 1:27). • Trust God’s sure justice when the powerful seem unchecked (Psalm 10:17-18; Romans 12:19). Hope Beyond the Darkness Psalm 10 ends with confidence: “The LORD is King forever and ever” (v. 16). God’s reign guarantees that the cruelty outlined in Psalm 10:10 and condemned in Proverbs 6:16-19 will not stand. |
    |