Definition: They only consult to cast [him] down from his excellency: they delight in lies: they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. Selah.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Psalm 62:4. It’s a really powerful and insightful message about how people can be destructive when they focus on negativity and self-importance. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Idea: This verse warns against people who are constantly seeking to put themselves down, praise themselves excessively, and harbor bitterness and anger – even if they don’t express it outwardly. It suggests a deep, underlying unhappiness that fuels these behaviors. Let’s unpack the parts: “They only consult to cast him down from his excellency…” This is the key part. “Excellency” means high status, importance, or excellence. The verse describes people who are focused on getting rid of someone else's good reputation, praise, or admiration. They’re actively seeking to diminish or undermine others. It’s like a desire for revenge or control. “…they delight in lies…” This means they tell false stories or spin things out to make themselves look better than they are. They’re constructing narratives that are designed to hurt or shame others. “They bless with their mouth, but curse inwardly.” Blessing someone with a compliment or praise is like saying something nice. But the verse says they do it – they say things – but they're actually harboring and expressing those negative thoughts and feelings inside themselves. It’s like a silent storm of negativity. “Selah” - A Pause The word "Selah" is a Hebrew pause or interruption in poetry and scripture. It signifies a moment of reflection, a realization that something isn't right, and a turning away from the current behavior. It’s like a gentle warning: “Stop this! This isn’t healthy.” Overall Meaning: The verse is saying that people who dwell on negativity, seek to diminish others, and are consumed by bitterness will ultimately find themselves unhappy and destructive. It's about recognizing the root of unhappiness – it’s not just surface-level complaints, but a deep-seated need for self-importance and control that leads to harmful behavior. In short, it’s a call to cultivate kindness, humility, and peace within ourselves. What does this have to do with us? This verse encourages us to: Practice Self-Reflection: Take time to examine our own thoughts and feelings – are they rooted in negativity or judgment? Seek Growth: Focus on developing positive qualities like empathy, forgiveness, and gratitude. Choose Kindness: Instead of focusing on what others have done wrong, let's offer them compassion. Do you want me to explain any of these parts further, perhaps relate it to a specific situation or give an example?