1. Prayer for deliverance 140:1-8

140:1-5 Verses 1 and 2 are an introductory cry for help. David's enemies were evil violent men who were stirring up trouble for him and his kingdom. In verses 3-5 the psalmist lamented his condition. The words of his enemies were as a serpent's venom in their destructive power. David's adversaries had tried to trap him as a hunter snares an animal. Evidently David felt they were trying to kill him.

140:6-8 David repeated his call for God's help (cf. v. 1). He pictured God's protection of him in military terms (v. 7). Then he asked God not to permit his enemies' evil intentions.