Bible Studies:What does Psalm chapter 37 mean?
Chapter Context
Psalm 37 lies in the first division of Psalms and addresses mankind. Its tone resembles that of the book of Proverbs. The psalm dispenses wisdom about the security of the righteous man and the insecurity and fate of the wicked man. Psalms 36 and 39 also describe the insecurity and fate of the wicked. The covenant God made with Israel in Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 27—30 is the basis for David's assurance that the righteous are secure. The issue of the prosperity of the wicked is also featured in Psalms 49 and 73. David most likely wrote Psalm 37 in his old age.
What does Psalm chapter 37 mean?
In the beginning of this psalm David tells his audience not to "fret," which is translated from a Hebrew word referring to burning or heat. In contrast to anxiety, or rage, believers should trust in the Lord, delight themselves in the Lord, commit their way to the Lord, and wait patiently for the Lord. He explains that the prosperity of the wicked lasts only a short time, whereas the Lord's blessing of the righteous lasts forever (Psalm 37:1–11).
David points out that God is fully aware of the situations faced by the righteous. He is also aware of the seemingly unfair prosperity of the wicked. He knows the wicked abuse the poor and needy and violently oppose the righteous. He assures his readers that God always takes care of His people and protects them. His blessing extends not only to the righteous but also to their descendants. David says the righteous person has God's Word in his heart, and therefore he does not stumble through life. The Lord is always near the righteous person and will give him the Promised Land for an inheritance (Psalm 37:12–34).
From the world's perspective, evil people might seem like a tree with wide-spreading branches. Something so large, and so deeply rooted, can be intimidating. However, as David notes, that is merely an illusion compared to the power of God. In his own life, David saw the fate of the rich (1 Samuel 25:39), the strong (1 Samuel 17:48–51), and those in authority (1 Samuel 23:14) who rejected God and godly wisdom. When the once-powerful tree is destroyed, eventually all traces are gone. God promises a future for the righteous, but He will destroy the wicked. David concludes Psalm 37 by describing the Lord as the believers' salvation and refuge in times of trouble. He delivers them from the wicked (Psalm 37:35–40).
