Psalms 10

Psalms 10:1-18

The lament in Psalm 9:13–20 continues in Psalm 10 (see study note on Psalms 9–10). However, the mood shifts from confident statements to anguished questions. The psalmist prays for rescue, trusting that the Lord, as a just king, take care of the needy.

Psalms 10:1

The opening questions set the mood. The Lord does not seem to hear the prayers of his people (Psalm 22:1, 19; see 2 Kings 4:27; Isaiah 1:15).

Psalms 10:2-11

Wicked and oppressive people might succeed, causing harmful effects. Evil can be as dramatic as the psalmist portrays it here, or it could be more subtle.

Psalms 10:2

The wicked openly defy God with their actions and words (Psalm 17:10; 31:18; 59:12; 73:8; 123:4). Although the Lord will deal with them (Psalm 31:23), they trouble the righteous (see Psalm 5:4–6) before their condemnation and judgment.

Psalms 10:3

Unlike those who have evil desires, the godly wait for justice (Psalm 10:17).

Psalms 10:4

there is no God: See Psalms 10:11; 14:1.

Psalms 10:6-7

Even though they act wrongly (Psalms 5:9; 28:3; Romans 3:14), the wicked still hope for a future free of trouble like the righteous will enjoy.

Psalms 10:8

The wicked rely on violence (Psalms 11:5; 37:32) and deception (Proverbs 12:6; 23:27–28).

Psalms 10:12-15

With confidence that the wicked will be held responsible for their deeds and that the Lord will care for the helpless, the psalmist prays intensely for rescue from evil.

Psalms 10:14

The Lord cares for those who suffer. He will notice and punish those who do evil (see Psalm 72:14; 116:15).

Psalms 10:15

• The psalmist prays and calls for a strong curse (see “Prayers for Vengeance” Theme Note).

• Arms represent the ability to wage war (Psalms 18:34; 44:3).

Psalms 10:16

As the true and just king, God will bring the wicked to an end, as he promises (Psalm 1:6).

Psalms 10:17-18

The psalmist expresses his confidence in the Lord.

Psalms 10:18

People often misuse their power and enslave the very people God wants them to serve (see Psalms 9:19–20; Luke 22:25–26).

Aquifer Open Study Notes © 2026 Mission Mutual, an adaptation of the Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.