KJV ORIGINAL
Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
Lord, please don't give wicked people what they want or help their evil plans succeed, or they will become proud and think they're unstoppable. Selah.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is asking God not to let evil people get their way, because if they do, they'll become even more arrogant and dangerous.
📚 Historical Context
This is part of a prayer for protection that David likely wrote when facing enemies who were plotting against him. In ancient times, people believed that when evil people succeeded in their schemes, they would become more bold and oppressive toward others. The word 'Selah' appears throughout the Psalms and likely indicates a musical pause for reflection.
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