Psalm 64:6

They devise injustice and say, "We have perfected a secret plan." For the inner man and the heart are mysterious.

Study Bible

They devise injustice and say,
This phrase highlights the intentional and premeditated nature of the wicked actions being described. In biblical context, devising injustice is often associated with the actions of those who oppose God's righteous order. The Hebrew word for "devise" suggests a calculated and deliberate plotting, similar to the schemes of the wicked described in Proverbs 6:16-19, where God lists things He hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes." This reflects the moral corruption prevalent in societies that turn away from divine law, as seen in the narratives of Israel's history when leaders and people alike engaged in idolatry and oppression.

“We have perfected a secret plan.”
The notion of a "secret plan" indicates a level of cunning and deceit. In the ancient Near Eastern context, secrecy in plans often involved conspiracies against rulers or the righteous, as seen in the story of Absalom's conspiracy against King David (2 Samuel 15). The idea of "perfecting" such a plan suggests a false sense of security and pride in their own wisdom, reminiscent of the Tower of Babel narrative (Genesis 11:1-9), where human pride led to divine judgment. This phrase also echoes the futility of human schemes against God's sovereign will, as seen in Psalm 2:1-4, where the nations conspire in vain against the Lord and His Anointed.

For the inner man and the heart are mysterious.
This phrase underscores the complexity and depth of human nature. Biblically, the "inner man" and the "heart" refer to the core of a person's being, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and will. Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" This highlights the inscrutability and potential for evil within the human heart, which only God can truly know and judge. The mystery of the heart also points to the need for divine transformation, as seen in Ezekiel 36:26, where God promises to give a new heart and spirit. In the New Testament, this transformation is fulfilled in Christ, who offers renewal and understanding through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:16-17).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Psalmist (David)
Traditionally attributed to King David, this psalm reflects his experiences with adversaries who plot against him.

2. Adversaries
The individuals or groups who are devising secret plans and injustices against the psalmist.

3. The Inner Man and the Heart
Refers to the deep, often hidden, motivations and thoughts of individuals, highlighting the complexity and mystery of human intentions.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often involves secretive and deceptive plans. We must be vigilant and discerning to recognize and resist such schemes.

The Mystery of the Heart
Human intentions can be complex and hidden. We should seek God's wisdom to understand our own hearts and the hearts of others.

God's Sovereignty Over Human Plans
While humans may devise secret plans, God is ultimately in control. Trust in His justice and timing.

The Importance of Integrity
As believers, we are called to live with integrity, avoiding secretive and unjust actions.

Prayer for Discernment
Regularly pray for discernment to see through deceit and to align our hearts with God's truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the deceitfulness of the heart (Jeremiah 17:9) help us in recognizing the nature of the adversaries' plans in Psalm 64:6?

2. In what ways can we apply the truth of God's sovereignty over human plans (Proverbs 16:9) to situations where we feel wronged or plotted against?

3. How can Ephesians 6:12 inform our understanding of the spiritual dimensions of the adversaries' secret plans?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our own hearts and intentions align with God's will, avoiding the pitfalls of secretive and unjust actions?

5. How can prayer and seeking God's wisdom help us discern the true intentions of others and protect us from being deceived by secretive plans?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 17:9
This verse speaks about the deceitfulness of the heart, connecting to the idea of the heart being mysterious and capable of devising secret plans.

Proverbs 16:9
Discusses how a person may plan their way, but the Lord directs their steps, emphasizing the contrast between human intentions and divine sovereignty.

Ephesians 6:12
Highlights the spiritual battle against the rulers of darkness, which can relate to the hidden and secretive nature of the adversaries' plans.