Psalms 59:11
Slay them not, lest my people forget: scatter them by thy power; and bring them down, O Lord our shield.
Psalms 59:11
This verse forms part of a plea for restraint in the face of enemies who threaten violence or slander. “Slay them not, lest my people forget” acknowledges a delicate balance: God’s people must not be hardened by vengeance or allow their memory of God’s mercy to fade through the spectacle of revenge. The request to “scatter them by thy power” and “bring them down” expresses confidence that God’s power can disrupt the enemies’ plans without the psalmist taking vengeance into his own hands. The imagery of being “our shield” (later in verse 11) and the surrounding context highlight a reliance on God’s protective presence in the midst of conflict. The Psalmist recognizes that unchecked aggression can harden hearts or cause the people to forget God’s faithfulness. The culture valued righteous restraint; therefore, the plea is for divine justice that preserves communal memory and trust in God.
Theologically, this verse highlights divine restraint alongside divine power. It asserts that God’s governance of justice may involve controlling the impulses to retaliate in ways that would damage God’s people. The fear of memory loss—“lest my people forget”—shows how easily faith can be eroded by cycles of vengeance. By requesting scattering rather than killing, the psalmist emphasizes divine sovereignty: God is the true judge who can dismantle harmful schemes while preserving the community’s memory of God’s mercy. It also speaks to the dignity of enemies—God’s justice can address wrongdoing without becoming ruinous. This refrain contributes to a robust biblical view of justice that aims at restoration and truth rather than revenge.
Practically, this calls believers to pursue justice that protects others and preserves faith communities’ integrity. When facing opponents who seem irresistible, commit to non-retaliation, seek fair procedures, and honor truth-tellers. It’s a reminder that collective memory matters: the church or community must remember God’s past faithfulness and resist the erosion that anger causes. If you’re tempted to “slay with words” or to escalate conflict online or in person, pause, pray, and choose responses that upholds dignity for all involved. Networking with wise mentors or mediators can help. In personal life, cultivate a habit of naming God’s mercy aloud in difficult situations, reinforcing faith rather than fear.
Cross-References: Romans 12:17-21; Proverbs 24:29; Exodus 14:14; Psalm 4:4; Micah 7:18-19