Why did David ask God not to kill his enemies, and then ask him to consume them in wrath? (Psalm 59:11–13)

Psalm 59:11 But do not kill them, Lord our shield,
    or my people will forget.
In your might uproot them
    and bring them down.
12 For the sins of their mouths,
    for the words of their lips,
    let them be caught in their pride.
For the curses and lies they utter,
13     consume them in your wrath,
    consume them till they are no more.
Then it will be known to the ends of the earth
    that God rules over Jacob.

Psalms 59:1 - 17

ESV - ¹ Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; protect me from those who rise up against me. ² Deliver me from those who work evil, and save me from bloodthirsty men.

Clarify • Share • Report • Asked January 04 2022 • Jack Gutknecht