Old Testament
Psalms 71:10
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For my enemies speak against me, and those who lay wait for my soul take counsel together,
Compare translations
For mine enemies speak against me; and they that lay wait for my soul take counsel together,
What Psalms 71:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the psalmist expresses a deep sense of vulnerability and distress. He feels surrounded by enemies who are actively plotting against him. These adversaries are not just speaking ill of him; they are conspiring together, indicating a coordinated effort to harm him. This highlights the reality of facing opposition and the emotional turmoil that comes with it. The psalmist's acknowledgment of his enemies serves as a reminder that life can be filled with challenges and threats, but it also sets the stage for seeking divine help and protection. The verse reflects a common human experience of feeling attacked or misunderstood, emphasizing the need for support and strength in difficult times. It invites readers to consider their own struggles and the importance of turning to God for refuge and guidance when facing adversaries, whether they are physical, emotional, or spiritual.
How to apply Psalms 71:10 to your life
When facing opposition or feeling attacked, remember that you are not alone. Seek support from friends, family, or your faith community. Turn to prayer and scripture for strength and guidance, trusting that God is aware of your struggles and will provide the help you need.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 71:10
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 71:10
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 71:10 mean about enemies?
Psalms 71:10 highlights the psalmist's feelings of vulnerability as he faces enemies who are actively plotting against him. This verse illustrates the emotional turmoil that comes from feeling attacked and misunderstood, emphasizing the reality of opposition in life. It serves as a reminder that such struggles are common and encourages readers to seek divine help and protection.
How can I apply Psalms 71:10 in my life?
To apply Psalms 71:10, acknowledge your feelings of vulnerability when facing opposition. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or your faith community. Engage in prayer and reflect on scripture to find strength and guidance. Remember that you are not alone in your struggles, and trust that God is aware of your challenges and will provide the help you need.
What should I do when I feel attacked like the psalmist?
When you feel attacked, take a moment to reflect on your feelings and the situation. Reach out to supportive friends or family members who can offer encouragement. Turn to prayer, asking for strength and guidance from God. Reading scripture can also provide comfort and perspective, reminding you that you are not alone in your struggles.
Why does the psalmist mention enemies conspiring together?
The mention of enemies conspiring together in Psalms 71:10 emphasizes the coordinated effort of those who oppose the psalmist. It highlights the seriousness of the threat he faces and reflects a common human experience of feeling overwhelmed by collective opposition. This detail underscores the need for divine protection and support during challenging times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.