What is the meaning of Psalm 86:14? The arrogant rise against me, O God • David speaks plainly about proud opponents who have lifted themselves up against him. Their arrogance is not merely a personality flaw; it is rebellion against God’s rightful rule (James 4:6). • Scripture often pairs pride with hostility toward God’s people. In Psalm 3:1 David cries, “O LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!”. The same dynamic is on display here: opposition to the servant flows from contempt for the Master. • For believers, the line reminds us that conflict often comes precisely because we choose humility and dependence on God, provoking the proud (1 Peter 5:5). a band of ruthless men seeks my life • The threat is organized (“a band”) and violent (“ruthless”). David faced such men when Saul’s soldiers hunted him in the wilderness (1 Samuel 23:14) and when the Ziphites betrayed him (Psalm 54:3). • “Ruthless” indicates they act without mercy or conscience. Paul encountered similar plots when more than forty men “formed a conspiracy and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul” (Acts 23:12-13). • The believer should not be surprised when hostility intensifies. Jesus warned, “You will be hated by everyone because of My name” (Matthew 10:22), yet He also promised sustaining grace (2 Corinthians 12:9). they have no regard for You • Here is the heart of the matter: disdain for God leads to oppression of His people. Romans 3:18 summarizes the unbelieving mindset, “There is no fear of God before their eyes”. • Pharaoh once asked, “Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice?” (Exodus 5:2). Every generation sees the same posture. When God is dismissed, human life is devalued, and violence becomes thinkable. • This diagnosis keeps the believer’s perspective clear. Our struggle is not merely against flesh and blood but against a spiritual refusal to honor God (Ephesians 6:12). summary Psalm 86:14 exposes an age-old pattern: the proud rise up, form ruthless schemes, and persecute God’s servants precisely because they do not fear the Lord. David’s candid lament invites believers to recognize such opposition for what it is, to stand firm in humility, and to trust the God who sees, judges, and ultimately delivers His people. |
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