Psalms – Chapter 140

Old Testament10 Verses

1I have cried to thee, O Lord, hear me: hearken to my voice, when I cry to thee.

2Let my prayer be directed as incense in thy sight; the lifting up of my hands, as evening sacrifice.

3Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth: and a door round about my lips.

4Incline not my heart to evil words; to make excuses in sins. With men that work iniquity: and I will not communicate with the choicest of them.

5The just man shall correct me in mercy, and shall reprove me: but let not the oil of the sinner fatten my head. For my prayer shall still be against the things with which they are well pleased:

6Their judges falling upon the rock have been swallowed up. They shall hear my words, for they have prevailed:

7As when the thickness of the earth is broken up upon the ground: Our bones are scattered by the side of hell.

8But to thee, O Lord, Lord, are my eyes: in thee have I put my trust, take not away my soul.

9Keep me from the snare, which they have laid for me, and from the stumblingblocks of them that work iniquity.

10The wicked shall fall in his net: I am alone until I pass.

Reflection for Today

In Psalms Chapter 140, the Church invites us to listen attentively to God's Word within the broader narrative of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God.

The Second Vatican Council reminded the faithful that Scripture should permeate Catholic spirituality (Dei Verbum, 21-26). Psalms Chapter 140 supports that call by drawing attention to the moral law as path to freedom within the wider message that God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him.

If this passage raises questions, seek the Church's teaching through the Catechism, a faithful priest, or sound Catholic commentaries. Private interpretation must remain in harmony with the Magisterium (CIC 2772).

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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