Psalm 64:8

They will be made to stumble, their own tongues turned against them. All who see will shake their heads.

Study Bible

They will be made to stumble
This phrase suggests divine intervention where the plans of the wicked are thwarted. In biblical context, stumbling often symbolizes failure or downfall (Psalm 27:2, Isaiah 8:14-15). The imagery of stumbling is used throughout Scripture to depict the consequences of sin and rebellion against God. Historically, this reflects the belief that God actively protects the righteous by causing the plans of the wicked to fail. Theologically, it underscores the sovereignty of God in ensuring justice.

Their own tongues turned against them
This phrase indicates that the words or schemes of the wicked will backfire. Biblically, the tongue is a powerful tool that can be used for both good and evil (James 3:5-6). The idea of one's own words being used against them is seen in other scriptures, such as Proverbs 12:13 and Matthew 12:37, where words are shown to have the power to justify or condemn. This reflects a divine justice where the wicked are ensnared by their own deceitful speech, highlighting the moral order established by God.

All who see will shake their heads
This phrase suggests a public recognition of the downfall of the wicked. In cultural context, shaking one's head can be a gesture of scorn, disbelief, or derision (Job 16:4, Lamentations 2:15). It indicates that the downfall of the wicked serves as a warning and a lesson to others. This public acknowledgment of divine justice reinforces the biblical theme that God’s righteousness will ultimately be recognized by all, as seen in Psalm 52:6-7. The shaking of heads can also be seen as a fulfillment of prophetic warnings against those who oppose God’s will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 64, David is expressing his trust in God to protect him from his enemies and to bring justice.

2. Enemies of David
These are the individuals or groups who plot against David, using their words as weapons to harm him.

3. God
The ultimate judge and protector, who turns the schemes of the wicked back upon themselves.

4. Witnesses
Those who observe the downfall of the wicked and respond with astonishment and acknowledgment of God's justice.

5. Israel
The broader community that would have been familiar with David's struggles and the themes of divine justice and protection.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Words have the power to build up or destroy. As believers, we must be mindful of how we use our tongues, ensuring that our speech reflects our faith and values.

Divine Justice
God is just and will ultimately turn the schemes of the wicked back upon them. We can trust in His timing and justice, even when we face opposition.

Witnessing God's Justice
Observing God's justice in action can strengthen our faith and serve as a testimony to others. We should be attentive to how God works in the world around us.

Self-Reflection
Consider how our own words and actions align with God's will. Are we inadvertently setting traps for ourselves through careless speech?

Encouragement in Trials
When facing adversity, remember that God sees and will act. Our role is to remain faithful and trust in His protection and justice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the theme of "their own tongues will ruin them" in Psalm 64:8 relate to the teachings in James 3 about the power of the tongue?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our words align with God's will and do not lead to our own downfall?

3. How can witnessing God's justice in the lives of others strengthen our own faith and serve as a testimony to those around us?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced or observed the truth of Psalm 64:8. How did it impact your understanding of God's justice?

5. How can we encourage others who are facing opposition to trust in God's justice and protection, as demonstrated in Psalm 64?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:6
This verse discusses the power of the tongue and its potential for destruction, similar to how the enemies' tongues ruin them in Psalm 64:8.

Proverbs 12:13
This proverb highlights how an evil man is ensnared by the transgression of his lips, echoing the theme of self-destruction through one's words.

Matthew 12:36-37
Jesus speaks about being accountable for every careless word, reinforcing the idea that words can lead to one's downfall.