For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart.
For, lo. The argument follows whereon the friends of the godly justify their advice, "Flee" - namely, the preparations which "the wicked" have made against the godly. Compare the counsel of the disciples (John 11:8) and of the Pharisees (Luke 13:31) to Jesus to flee. Also, the unbelieving suggestions of Job's wife (Job 2:9-10). Also, Paul's noble resistance to the entreaties of friends who wished him to shun the dangers before him (Acts 21:13). In addition, see Nehemiah 6:11.
That they may privily shoot at - literally, 'shoot in the dark' (Psalms 10:8-9).
The upright in heart - х yishreey (H3477) leeb (H3820)]. 'Uprightness' or 'rectitude' implies reference to a spiritual standard by which actions are tested, whether they be straight or crooked. That rule is God's perfect law. Compare Isaiah 28:17.