Psalm 5:9

For not a word they speak can be trusted; destruction lies within them. Their throats are open graves; their tongues practice deceit.

Study Bible

For not a word they speak can be trusted;
This phrase highlights the deceitful nature of the wicked, emphasizing their unreliability. In biblical context, the psalmist often contrasts the faithfulness of God with the untrustworthiness of the wicked. This theme is echoed in other scriptures, such as Jeremiah 9:4-5, where deceit and betrayal are prevalent among the people. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on truthfulness, as seen in the Ten Commandments' prohibition against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). The psalmist's lament reflects a society where trust has eroded, a situation that can lead to social and spiritual decay.

destruction lies within them.
This phrase suggests that the wicked harbor intentions of harm and chaos. The Hebrew word for "destruction" can also imply ruin or calamity, indicating that their inner nature is corrupt and leads to destructive outcomes. This internal corruption is a recurring theme in the Psalms, where the heart's condition is often linked to one's actions (Psalm 14:1). The imagery of internal destruction aligns with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 15:18-19, where He explains that evil thoughts and actions originate from the heart. This connection underscores the biblical principle that inner character determines outward behavior.

Their throats are open graves;
The metaphor of "open graves" conveys the idea of death and decay emanating from the wicked. In ancient Near Eastern culture, graves were associated with impurity and defilement. An "open grave" would be a source of contamination, symbolizing the corrupting influence of the wicked's words. This imagery is also used by the Apostle Paul in Romans 3:13 to describe humanity's sinful nature, reinforcing the universality of sin and the need for redemption. The open grave metaphor serves as a stark warning of the spiritual death that accompanies deceit and malice.

their tongues practice deceit.
The act of practicing deceit with the tongue highlights the intentional and habitual nature of the wicked's falsehoods. In biblical literature, the tongue is often depicted as a powerful instrument capable of great harm or good (James 3:5-8). The psalmist's observation aligns with the wisdom literature's emphasis on the dangers of a deceitful tongue (Proverbs 6:16-19). This phrase also foreshadows the New Testament's call for believers to speak truthfully and avoid deceit (Ephesians 4:25). The consistent biblical message is that integrity in speech reflects a heart aligned with God's righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of Psalm 5, David is expressing his lament and seeking God's guidance and protection against deceitful and wicked people.

2. The Wicked
The individuals described in this verse are characterized by their deceitful speech and destructive intentions.

3. God
The ultimate judge and protector whom David seeks for guidance and deliverance from the wicked.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Words have the power to build up or destroy. As believers, we must be mindful of our speech, ensuring it aligns with truth and love.

Guarding Against Deceit
We must be vigilant against deceit, both in others and within ourselves, seeking God's wisdom to discern truth from lies.

Seeking God's Protection
Like David, we should turn to God for protection and guidance when faced with deceit and wickedness in the world.

The Heart's Condition
Our speech reflects the condition of our hearts. Regular self-examination and repentance are necessary to maintain a heart aligned with God.

The Role of Scripture
Scripture serves as a guide to help us recognize and avoid deceitful practices, encouraging us to live in truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's description of the wicked in Psalm 5:9 challenge us to examine our own speech and intentions?

2. In what ways can we guard our hearts to ensure our words reflect truth and integrity?

3. How does the connection between Psalm 5:9 and Romans 3:13 deepen our understanding of human sinfulness and the need for redemption?

4. What practical steps can we take to seek God's protection and guidance when confronted with deceit in our daily lives?

5. How can we use Scripture to help us discern truth from deceit in the world around us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:13
Paul references Psalm 5:9 when discussing the universal sinfulness of humanity, emphasizing the deceitful nature of human speech.

Jeremiah 9:8
This verse similarly describes the deceitful nature of the wicked, comparing their speech to a deadly arrow.

Matthew 12:34
Jesus speaks about how the mouth speaks what the heart is full of, connecting to the idea of deceitful speech stemming from a corrupt heart.