Psalm 14

vs 1

What an odd way to start a song. It would be so interesting to know more about the musical culture that spawns songs like this.

Obviously David has someone in particular in mind. No doubt someone from outside the community of Israel. The statement about there being none who does good we know from Romans 3. But while we would read that universally (and Paul meant it so), did David mean it universally? Or just universally outside of Israel?

vs 2

We know that any time the Lord has done something like this, he has found Lot, or Abraham, or Noah, or Moses, or Elijah. Not perfect men by any means, but people who stood out to God as men of faith.

vs 3

Again, from Romans we recognise this verse. But is David being universalist? It's hard to say.

vs 4

Obviously they aren't actually eating David's people, but they probably are killing them. The questioning nature of the beginning sentence indicates that they are making stark errors in their actions - attempting to destroy God's people, and refusing to call on God - shows how ignorant they are.

vs 5

I find this totally confusing. Why are they overwhelmed with dread? If they don't think God is there, why are the dreading his vengance? Unless they can actually sense his presence with the righteous.

Of course, the next question is - if there are none who understand, and none who seek God, who are the righteous?

vs 6

This verse serves to show whose side each is on. So with regards to the poor, the evildoers frustrate their plans, but God's attitude to the poor is to protect them and look after them.

vs 7

Again David talks about salvation (I mean again as from the last psalm). And again it is talking about a deliverance from his enemies first and foremost. I'm not sure what David means by restoring God's people. Perhaps this was written during the times of constant battles, before Israel's borders were secure.