Psalm 37
This is one of the “acrostic” or “alphabetical” psalms. This served as a mnemonic aid in retaining the psalm. In this psalm the uniqueness of the composition is, that the successive letters of the alphabet occur at the beginning of every other verse, the first, the third, the fifth, etc. The exceptions are at Psalms 37:7, Psalms 37:20, Psalms 37:29, Psalms 37:34. In Psalms 37:29 the Hebrew letter צ occurs instead of the Hebrew letter ע; and in Psalms 37:7, Psalms 37:20, Psalms 37:34, the letter introduces only a single verse. It is not possible now to account for these irregularities in the structure of the psalm. The probability is, that the author of the psalm did not observe entire accuracy in this respect, but that he made use of the successive Hebrew letters only as a general guide in controlling the mode of the composition. In this psalm the succession of “letters” does not in any way denote a succession or a variety of “subjects.”
This psalm was composed when David was an old man Psalms 37:25. The occasion on which the psalm was composed is not mentioned in the title, nor is there anything in the psalm itself to fix it to any particular period of the life of David other than when he was older. Like Psalms 73, it seems to have been suggested by a contemplation of the character and designs of the wicked, and especially of the fact that they are permitted to live, and that they enjoy, under the divine administration, so much prosperity.
The fundamental thought running through the whole Psalm is at once expressed in the opening verses: Do not let the prosperity of the ungodly be a source of vexation to thee, but wait on the Lord; for the prosperity of the ungodly will suddenly come to an end, and the issue determines between the righteous and the unrighteous.
The points in the psalm are the following:
I. The main subject of the psalm - the exhortation not to fret” or be troubled on account of evildoers and the workers of iniquity; not to allow the mind to be anxious in regard to the fact that there are such persons, or in regard to their plans, or to their prosperity in the world - for they are soon to be cut down and pass away, Psalms 37:1-2.
II. The state of mind which should be cherished in such cases - “calm confidence in God in the faithful performance of duty,” Psalms 37:3-8. We are to trust in the Lord, and do good, Psalms 37:3 to find our happiness in God, Psalms 37:4; to commit our way to Him in all our perplexities and troubles, Psalms 37:5-6; to rest secure in Him, waiting patiently for His interposition, Psalms 37:7; and to cease from all wrathful or revengeful feelings in reference to the wicked, Psalms 37:8.
III. The reasons for this state of mind, - Psalms 37:9-40.
These reasons, without being kept entirely distinct, are two in number:
(1) The future doom of the wicked - Psalms 37:9-15. The general idea here is that they will be cut off, and soon pass away; that they will not secure ultimate success and prosperity, but that their wicked conduct will recoil on themselves, and overwhelm them in destruction.
(2) The ultimate prosperity of the righteous, - Psalms 37:16-40. This is illustrated from various points of view, and with special reference to the experience of the psalmist. After some general statements in regard to the happy lot of the righteous Psalms 37:16-24, he refers to his own observation, during a long life, respecting the comparative effects of a wicked and a righteous course. This is shown in two respects:
(a) The protection and care of God over the righteous, Psalms 37:25-26. He says that he had been young, and that he was then an aged man, but that in his long life he had never seen the righteous forsaken, nor his children begging bread.
(b) The providence of God as against the wicked, Psalms 37:35-36. He says that he had seen the wicked man in great power, and flourishing like a tree, but he soon passed away, and could no more be found upon the earth.
The general argument in the psalm, therefore, is that righteousness, the fear of God, “religion,” has a tendency to promote ultimate happiness, and to secure length of days and real honor upon the earth; that the prosperity of the wicked is temporary, and that however prosperous and happy they may seem to be, they will be ultimately cut off and made miserable.
Psa 37:1 A Psalm of David. Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
A composed and uniform trust in God and a constant course of integrity are urged in view of the blessedness of the truly pious, contrasted in various aspects with the final ruin of the wicked. Thus the wisdom and justice of God’s providence are vindicated, and its seeming inequalities are explained. David’s personal history abundantly illustrates the Psalm. The general sentiment of the whole Psalm is expressed. The righteous need not be vexed by the prosperity of the wicked; for it is transient, and their destiny undesirable.
Fret not thyself - Compare Proverbs 24:19 Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked; Compare Prov. 23:17–18 17 ¶ Do not let your heart envy sinners; but be in the fear of the LORD all the day long. 18 For surely there is a hereafter, and your hope shall not be cut off.
Fret not thyself - The Hebrew word here means properly to burn, to be kindled, to be inflamed, and is often applied to anger, as if under its influence we become “heated.” Hence, it means to fret oneself, to be angry, or indignant. The state of mind is that we are worried, or envious, because others are prosperous and successful, and we are not. The idea is, therefore, closely allied with that in the other part of the verse, “neither be thou envious.”
Because of evildoers - Wicked men:
(a) at the fact that there are wicked men, or that God suffers them to live;
(b) at their numbers;
(c) at their success and prosperity.
Neither be thou envious - Envy is pain, mortification, discontent, at the prosperity of others, accompanied often with some degree of malignant feeling. It is the result of a comparison of ourselves with others who are more highly gifted or favored, or who are more successful than we are ourselves. The feeling referred to here is that which springs up in the mind when we see persons of corrupt or wicked character prospered, while we, endeavoring to do right, are left to poverty, to disappointment, and to tears.
Neither be thou envious - It is as foolish as it is wicked to be envious at the prosperity of others. Whether they are godly or ungodly, it is God who is the dispenser of the bounty they enjoy. To be envious in such a case, is to cry against the providence of God.
Psa 37:2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass – A metaphor for the weakness of the wicked. As the grass in the field is cut down by the mower; that is, however prosperous they may seem to be now, they are like the grass in the meadow which is so green and luxuriant, but which is soon to fall under the scythe of the mower. Their prosperity is only temporary, for they will soon pass away. The idea in the word rendered “soon” is not that it will be done immediately, but that “when” it occurs it will be a quick and rapid operation - as the grass falls rapidly before the mower. Compare Psalms 90:5-6 Thou carriest them away as with a flood; they are as a sleep: in the morning they are like grass which groweth up. In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb - Which in the morning looks green, pretty, and flourishing, and in the evening is cut down, and then fades away; and so the wicked prosper and flourish for a while, and then they perish with all their honor, riches, and wealth; so that their happiness is a very short lived one, and therefore need not be envied and fretted at.
Psa 37:3 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.
Trust in the Lord - Not in men, who are fading and perishing like the green grass and tender herb; nor in riches, which are very uncertain things; but in the Lord, in whom is everlasting strength; and with whom is righteousness; trust in him both for things temporal and spiritual, for soul and body, for time and eternity; the way to have peace and quietness of mind is to exercise faith in the Lord.
Trust in the Lord - Confide in him; rest on him. Instead of allowing the mind to be disturbed and sad, because there are wicked men upon the earth; because they are prosperous and apparently happy; because they may injure you in your person or reputation, calmly confide in God. Leave all this in his hands. Feel that he rules, and that what he permits is wisely permitted; and that whatever may occur, it will all be overruled for His own glory.
and do good - in general, do all good actions, in faith, without trusting to them but in the Lord; doing them in His service, and with a view to His glory.
So shalt thou dwell in the land – Dwell in the land, contrasted with the wicked withering as dry grass. The idea is, that they should abide there calmly and securely; that they should not worry themselves because there were wicked men upon the earth, and because they were successful, but that they should be thankful for their inheritance, and partake gratefully of the bounties which they receive from the hand of God. This idea is further expressed in Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
shalt thou dwell in the land - either in the land of Canaan, a continuance in which depended upon the obedience of the people of the Jews to the commands of God; or rather in the promised land which is afar off, the heavenly and better country, which those that trust in the Lord, and have that faith in Christ, shall dwell in to all eternity;
And verily thou shalt be fed – the literal meaning is “Feed on truth.” It properly means to feed, as a flock; and then, to feed upon anything in the sense of delighting in, or taking pleasure in anything, as if we found our support or sustenance in it. “Feed on truth;” that is, seek after truth; find delight in it; let it be the food of your souls. The meaning is, that they should seek after truth, and find their support and comfort in that. John 6:47-51 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
There are in this verse, four things prescribed as duty, in order to keep the mind calm in view of the fact that wickedness abounds in the world: (1) to trust in God; (2) to be actively employed in doing good; (3) to abide calmly and gratefully in the land which God has given us; (4) to seek after truth, or a true view of the character of God. If people would do these things, there would be little complaining and fretting in the world.
Psa 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
Delight thyself also in the Lord - Expect all your happiness from Him, and seek it in Him. The meaning here is, that we should seek our happiness in God - in His being, His perfections, His friendship, His love.
Delight thyself also in the Lord - In the persons in God, Father, Son, and Spirit; in the perfections of God, His power, goodness, faithfulness, wisdom, love, grace, and mercy; in His works of creation, providence, and redemption; in His word, His Gospel, the truths and ordinances of it; in His house, and the worship of it etc.
He shall give thee the desires of thine heart - literally, the “askings,” or the “requests” of thy heart. What you really “desire” will be granted to you. The fact that you seek your happiness in him should regulate your desires, so that you will be disposed to ask only those things which it will be proper for him to grant. The fact that a child loves his father, and finds his happiness in doing his will, will do much to regulate his own wishes or desires, and will at the same be a reason why the father will be disposed to comply with his requests.
He shall give thee the desires of thine heart - such as are according to the will of God, and for the good of His people. Your hearts will desire the right things when you delight yourself in the Lord.
Psa 37:5 Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Commit thy way unto the Lord – Literally “Roll thy way upon the Lord.” The idea is that of rolling a heavy burden from ourselves on another, or laying it upon Him, so that He may bear it. The burden which we have not got strength to bear we may lay on God. The term “way” means properly the act of treading or going; a way or path; a course of life, or the manner in which one lives; and the reference here is to the whole course of life. Everything, in regard to the manner in which we live, and all its results, is to be committed to the Lord.
Commit thy way unto the Lord - Or "thy works", as in Proverbs 16:3 Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. That is, all the affairs and business of life. Seek direction of God in everything engaged in, and for strength and assistance to perform it, and depend upon Him for success, and give Him all the glory.
And He shall bring it to pass - He will bring it to a proper issue; He will secure a happy result. The thing particularly referred to here, as appears from the next verse, is reputation, righteousness and proper judgment. This can apply to eternal righteousness too. Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Psa 37:6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.
And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light - That is, if you are slandered; if your character is assailed, if reproach comes upon you from the devices of wicked people in such a way that you cannot meet it - then He will protect your character, and all to be as clear in reference to your character and the motives of your conduct as the sun without a cloud.
And thy judgment - God will cause justice to be done to your character. This includes the righteousness of Christ, which is the believer's by imputation, and is a justifying one in the judgment of God; Micah 7:9 I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him, until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me: he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousness.
As the noonday - The original word here is in the dual form, and means properly “double-light;” that is, the strongest, brightest light. It means “ noon ,” because the light is then most clear and bright. The idea is, that he will make your character perfectly clear and bright. No cloud will remain on it.
Psa 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
Rest in the Lord - “Be silent to the Lord.” The Hebrew word means to be mute, silent, still. Hence the idea in the phrase here, is that of waiting in silent patience, of leaving the whole matter with Him without being anxious as to the result. Quietly submit to his will. Be submissive and avoid petulance and murmurings, anger and rash doing.
And wait patiently for him - For bringing the matter to a proper issue. He may seem to delay long but you are not to be anxious and troubled. God does not always interpose in our behalf at once; and there may be valuable ends to accomplish in reference to yourself - in the discipline of your own spirit; in bringing out in your case the graces of gentleness, patience, and forgiveness; and in leading you to examine yourself and to understand your own character - which may make it proper that He should not interpose immediately. It may be added that, however important this seems to us, it is of no consequence to God; and more important results may be secured by delay than would be gained by an immediate interposition in correcting the evil and redressing the wrong. All that the promise implies is that justice will be done, whether sooner or later must be left to Him; and that our character will be finally safe in His hands. Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Prospers in his way – The success of the wicked is self centered rather than God centered.
Psa 37:8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Cease from anger - That is, in reference to the fact that there are wicked people, and that they are permitted to carry out their plans. Do not allow your mind to be excited with envious, fretful, wrathful, or murmuring feelings against God because He bears patiently with them, and because they are allowed a temporary prosperity and triumph. Be calm, whatever may be the wickedness of the world. The supreme direction belongs to God, and He will dispose of it in the best way.
Cease from anger - Anger at these wicked men who are so prosperous, or at God, who for the present permits it. Compare Jonah 4:9 And God said to Jonah, Doest thou well to be angry for the gourd? And he said, I do well to be angry, even unto death. Proverbs 19:3 The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD.
To do evil - Do not allow your mind to become so excited that you will indulge in harsh or malignant remarks; or so as to lead you to do wrong to any man, however wicked he may be. See always that you are right, whatever others may be, and do not allow their conduct to be the means of leading you into sin in any form. Look to your own character and conduct first.
To do evil - evil may be done by fretting at the prosperity of wicked men, or by imitating them, doing as they do, in hope of being prosperous as they are.
Psa 37:9 For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.
For evildoers shall be cut off - “Cut off” generally refers to divine judgment. They shall not ultimately prosper. God will order all things in equity, and though such men now seem to be prosperous, and to be the objects of the divine favor, yet all this is temporary. The day of retribution will certainly come, and they will be dealt with as they deserve. Proverbs 2:22 But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it.
those that wait upon the Lord shall inherit the earth - such who trust in his grace and mercy, these shall have for their inheritance, not the land of Canaan, a land flowing with milk and honey, which the obedient Jews enjoyed; but the eternal domain, where those whose sins are forgiven through the blood of Jesus will dwell with our Lord forever, often called an inheritance.
Psa 37:10 For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be.
the wicked shall not be - The language “shall not be” cannot mean that they will cease to exist altogether. All that is intended is that they would be no longer on the earth; they would no longer live to give occasion for anxious thoughts and troubled feelings in the hearts of good people. Not that they shall be annihilated or reduced to nothing, because nonentities have no place nor being any where; when they die they shall lift up their eyes in hell; their bodies will rise again at the last day; they shall stand before the judgment seat of Christ, and go into everlasting punishment; but they shall be no more in the world, and in the same flourishing and prosperous circumstances they were: and this their destruction will be in a short time, very quickly
Yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place - The place where he lived; the house in which he dwelt; the office which he filled; the grounds which he cultivated. Compare Job 7:10 He shall return no more to his house, neither shall his place know him any more.
And it shall not be – That is, you will not see him there. His seat at the table is vacant; he is seen no more riding over his grounds; he is no more in the social circle where he found his pleasure, or in the place of: you are impressed with the feeling that “he is gone.” You look where he was, but he is not there; you visit every place where you have been accustomed to see him, “but he is gone.” Compare Job 14:10 But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he?
Psa 37:11 But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
But the meek shall inherit the earth - The word properly denotes those who are afflicted, distressed, needy; then, those who are of humble rank in life; then, the mild, the gentle, the meek. The term here is a general one to denote those who are the friends of God, considered as meek, mild, gentle, humble, in contradistinction from the wicked who are proud and haughty; perhaps also, in this connection, in contrast with the wicked as prosperous in life. It was probably this passage that the Savior quoted in Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
In the abundance of peace - In abundant peace. In the tranquility and quietness in which they spend their lives, in contrast with the jealousies, the contentions, and the strifes which exist among the wicked even when prosperous. They will have peace with God. Psalms 29:11 The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace. Psalms 85:8 I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. Psalms 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: They will have peace in their own consciences; they will have peace in the calmness of a quiet and contented spirit; they will have peace with those around them, as they have no passions to gratify, and no object to secure, which will excite the envy, or stir up the wrath, of others. A spiritual peace enjoyed in a way of believing, arising from a comfortable view of interest in the blood, righteousness, and sacrifice of Christ; and of all happiness and prosperity in the kingdom of Christ here on earth and of eternal peace in the world to come, which will be a state of uninterrupted and unspeakable peace.
Psa 37:12 The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.
The wicked plotteth against the just - The word means to plot; to lie in wait; to plan; to purpose; to devise. The meaning is that wicked people lay their plans against the righteous, but that they will not be able to carry them out, or accomplish them, for they will be cut off, and the Lord will protect His friends.
And gnasheth upon him with his teeth - which expresses his malice and hatred, as David's enemies did upon him, Psalms 35:16 With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth and Stephen's, Acts 7:54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. An expression of rage or anger.
Psa 37:13 The Lord shall laugh at him: for he seeth that his day is coming.
The Lord shall laugh at him - That is, He will regard all his attempts as vain, as not worthy of serious thought or care. The language is that which we use when there is no fear or apprehension felt. It is not that God is unfeeling, or that He is disposed to deride man, but that He regards all such efforts as vain.
For he seeth that his day is coming - The day appointed by God for his punishment or destruction. He sees that the wicked man cannot be ultimately successful, but that destruction is coming upon him. There is nothing ultimately to be apprehended from his designs, for his overthrow is certain.
Psa 37:14 The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation.
The wicked have drawn out the sword - That is, they have prepared themselves with a full purpose to destroy the righteous. There is animosity in the souls of sinners against the godly.
And have bent their bow - literally, “have trodden the bow,” in allusion to the method by which the bow was bent: by placing the foot on it, and drawing the string back. The former expression may design the more open, and this the more secret way of acting against the righteous.
And to slay such as be of upright conversation - “the upright of way.” That is, those who are upright in their manner of life, or in their conduct. Those who walk according to the rule of the word of God, and as becomes the Gospel of Christ.
Psa 37:15 Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken.
Their sword shall enter into their own heart - Their purposes will recoil on themselves; or they will themselves suffer what they had devised for others. See the same sentiment expressed in Psalms 7:15-16 He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made. His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate. Psalms 9:15 The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken. Compare Esther 7:10 So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.
and their bows shall be broken - the meaning is, that their efforts shall be fruitless, and their attempts in vain; the mischief they have contrived and designed for others shall fall upon themselvesand therefore the saints should not be fretful and envious.
Psa 37:16 A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.
A little that a righteous man hath - the little that the righteous have is to them of more real value, accompanied, as it is, with higher blessings, than the more abundant wealth which the wicked often possess. Luke 16:19-31, the story of Lazarus and the rich man is a good example of this.
Psa 37:17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous.
For the arms of the wicked shall be broken - That is, their sword arm, with which they have drawn it; and so shall not be able to strike with it; and with which they have bent their bows, but shall not be able to shoot: and this proves, what is before suggested, that their efforts shall be fruitless. The “arm” is the instrument by which we accomplish a purpose; and the meaning here is, that that will be broken on which the wicked rely, or, in other words, that their plans will fail, and that they will be disappointed - as a man is rendered helpless whose arms are broken.
But the Lord upholdeth the righteous - The Lord will sustain and strengthen them. The Lord will uphold the righteous, and enable them fully to carry out their plans. Their great scheme or purpose of life, the promotion of the glory of God, and the salvation of their own souls, will be fully accomplished - for in that purpose God will be their helper and friend.
But the Lord upholdeth the righteous - both in a providential way, by supporting them in their time of need, and bearing them up under all their afflictions; and in a spiritual way, by maintaining the principle of grace and life in them, by furnishing them with all spiritual blessings, and by sustaining them in times of temptation; upholding them so as that they stand in the grace of God now, and shall stand before Christ with confidence hereafter; and shall not fall here finally and totally, nor in the day of judgment. 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Psa 37:18 The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.
The Lord knoweth the days of the upright - He sees their whole course of life; he sees the end. It is implied here that his eyes are on all the allotted days of their life; on all that has been ordained for them in the whole course of their life; and that nothing can shorten the days appointed to them. The Lord also approves of the man and his concerns; and his inheritance shall be for ever. He shall have God for his portion, here and hereafter.
The Lord knoweth the days of the upright - Not only how long they shall live, but the nature of their days, whether prosperous or adverse; and causes both to work together for their good. He knows the actions done by them in faith and love, and to His honor and glory.
And their inheritance shall be forever - Shall be permanent, enduring. They will have a sure inheritance on earth, and it will endure to all eternity in another world.
Psa 37:19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.
They shall not be ashamed in the evil thee - In times of calamity and trouble. The word “ashamed” here refers to disappointment; as when one goes to a fountain or stream for water and finds it dried up. Compare to Job 6:20 They were confounded because they had hoped; they came thither, and were ashamed and Psalms 25:2-3 O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
They shall not be ashamed - They have expressed strong confidence in the Lord; and he shall so work in their behalf that their enemies shall never be able to say, “Ye have trusted in your God, and yet your enemies have prevailed over you.”
Psa 37:20 But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.
But the wicked shall perish - The general sentiment here is the same as in Psalms1:1-6, that the righteous shall be prospered and saved, and that the wicked shall perish. Whether the psalmist means here to refer to the fact that they will be cut off from the earth, or will be punished for eternity, cannot be determined from the word itself. The word used, however, would also express the idea of destruction in the future world in any form, and likely has a significance beyond anything that can befall men in this life. Matthew 25:46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
Shall be as the fat of lambs – Some versions render this, “like the beauty of the pastures.” The fat of lambs is the sacrificial parts, or the parts that were consumed in sacrifice. The word rendered “fat” means properly that which is valuable. It appears the idea is that the wicked in their pride, beauty, and wealth, shall be like the meadow covered with grass and flowers, soon to be cut down by the scythe of the mower, or by the frosts of winter or burned up in a fire. This image often occurs in Scripture. Matthew 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Isaiah 40:6-8 The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. James 1:10-11 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. 1Peter 1:24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
They shall consume - The word used here means to be completed or finished; to be consumed or spent, as by fire, or in any other manner. They consume away in the fire of God’s wrath.
Into smoke - The meaning here is not that they will vanish as the fat of lambs does in sacrifice, but simply that they will pass away as smoke entirely disappears. All that there was of them - their wealth, their splendor, their power - shall utterly vanish away. This is spoken in contrast with what would be the condition of the righteous.
Psa 37:21 The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth.
The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again - This is probably intended here, not so much to describe the “character” as the “condition” of the wicked. The ability to lend to others is referred to as a part of the promise of God to his people, and as marking their condition as a prosperous one, in Deuteronomy 15:6 For the LORD thy God blesseth thee, as he promised thee: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow; and thou shalt reign over many nations, but they shall not reign over thee. Compare Deuteronomy 28:12 The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow. Conversely, as part of a curse on Israel if they disobeyed His commandments, Deuteronomy 28:44 He shall lend to thee, and thou shalt not lend to him: he shall be the head, and thou shalt be the tail.
But the righteous showeth mercy, and giveth - He has not only enough for himself, but he has the means of aiding others, and has the disposition to do it. Because he has received mercy from God, therefore he shows mercy to men. And even to his enemies he shows mercy, and gives; his heart being disposed to it by God’s grace and his hand being enabled to do it by the blessing of God’s providence.
Psa 37:22 For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off.
Psa 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord - The word rendered “ordered” means to stand erect; to set up; to found; to adjust, fit, direct. The idea here is, that all which pertains to the journey of a good man through life is directed, ordered, fitted, or arranged by the Lord. His course of life is under the divine guidance and control. The source is God.
The steps of a good man - The word “man” signifies a strong man, a conqueror or hero. The word “good” has been supplied here by the translators, and there is nothing corresponding to it in the original. It is simply there, “the steps of man are ordered,” etc. Yet there can be no doubt that a good or pious man is particularly referred to, for the connection demands this interpretation.
And he delighteth in his way - the man delights in God’s way - in the law and testimonies of his Maker.
Psa 37:24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
Though he fall - That is, though he is sometimes disappointed; though he is not always successful; though he may be unfortunate - yet this will not be final ruin. The word here does not refer to his falling into “sin,” but into misfortune, disappointment, reverses, calamities. The image is that of a man who is walking along on a journey, but who stumbles, or fails to the earth - a representation of one who is not always successful, but who finds disappointment spring up in his path.
He shall not be utterly cast down - The word used here means to “throw down at full length, to prostrate;” then, “to cast out, to throw away.” Here it means that he would not be “utterly” and “finally” prostrated; he would not fall so that he could not rise again. The calamity would be temporary. On a spiritual level, he shall not be utterly cast down because he is in the arms of everlasting love, and in the hands of Christ Jesus; the sure foundation, and is kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, and so shall not perish, but have everlasting life;
For the Lord upholdeth him with his hand - It is by no power of his own that he is recovered, but it is because, even when he falls, he is held up by an invisible hand. Our Lord is with us in the midst of our trials. Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
Psa 37:25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
And now am old – An older man with life experience.
Yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken – The Lord promises that He will never leave us. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Romans 8:38-39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken - though afflicted of God, and persecuted by men, yet not forsaken; though poor and needy, and often in dire circumstances, yet God in His providence appeared for them in one way or another. Such might be forsaken by men, and even by their dearest friends and relations, yet not by the Lord.
Nor his seed begging bread – This observation by the psalmist is a troubling verse especially in these hard modern times. Temporary destitution the psalmist does not deny: the psalm indeed is even intended to meet the conflict of doubt which springs up in the minds of the Christians out of certain conditions and circumstances that are seemingly contradictory to the justice of God; and this it does, by contrasting that which is eternal with that which is transient. Ideally the people of God will work for their food, or if in need, be helped by their neighbors and fellow believers. Eternally though we have the Bread of Life, Jesus.
Psa 37:26 He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.
He is ever merciful - That is, it is his character; he is constantly in the habit of showing kindness. He does not do it at intervals, or only occasionally, but it is this that marks the character of the man. He is known by this. The word “merciful” here means kind, compassionate, benignant - and particularly in this respect, that he is willing to “lend” to others when he has the means. Jesus said we would be known by our love for one another. Matthew 22: 36-40 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Helping someone in time of need is loving one’s neighbor.
He is ever merciful and lendeth - He sympathizes with the poor in distress, and shows mercy to miserable objects; not only by words, but deeds. He is confirmed in the habit of godliness: he feels for the distresses of men, and is ready to divide and distribute to all that are in necessity.
And lendeth - The wicked man “borrows,” but does not pay again (Psalms 37:21) while the righteous man lends to his neighbor.
And his seed is blessed - His children; his posterity, as the result of this conduct on his part. The psalmist contends that his seed, his posterity, is blessed; therefore they are not abandoned to beg their bread.
Psa 37:27 Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore.
Depart from evil, and do good - This is the sum of all that is said in the psalm; the great lesson emphasized by all these references to the effects of good and evil conduct. The grace of God ever gives this two-fold power to all who receive it; strength to overcome evil, and strength to do that which is right.
Depart from evil, and do good - Depart from evildoers, and their evil ways; join not with them, nor fret and be envious at them; but do acts of beneficence, and all good works; since righteous men, and their seed, are not forsaken, but blessed of God.
And dwell for evermore - Be for ever an inhabitant of God’s house. That is, in everlasting habitations, in the house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, Luke 16:9 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.
Psa 37:28 For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.
For the Lord loveth judgment - Righteousness, or righteous actions, when done according to His will, from love, in faith, and to His glory. That is, God loves that which is right; he loves to do right. The idea is, that rewarding with prosperity a pure and upright life and in cutting off the wicked is right and proper in itself; and that as God loves to do right, these consequences respectively may be expected to follow in regard to the righteous and the wicked. Compare Psalms 11:7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
But the seed of the wicked shall be cut off - The children who follow the wicked steps of wicked parents shall, like their parents, be cut off.
they are preserved for ever - from the slavery of sin and its condemnation, from a total and final falling away, and from being hurt of the second death: they are preserved in Christ, by the power of God, safe to his kingdom and glory.
Psa 37:29 The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever.
The righteous shall inherit the land - The word “inherit” suggests the idea that they are heirs, and that God will treat them as His children. As Christians, we have the eternal inheritance through the imparted righteousness of Christ on us. Galatians 3: 29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Psa 37:30 The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.
The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom - That is, it should be a characteristic of the righteous to speak “wise things;” not to utter folly. His conversation is serious, earnest, true, pure; and his words are faithful, kind, and just. The righteous speak the wisdom of God. They are taught of God, and they speak according to the wisdom that is from above. Matthew 12:34-35 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
And his tongue talketh of judgment - That is, of just or righteous things.
Psa 37:31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.
The law of his God is in his heart - That is, he loves it; he thinks of it; he makes it the inward rule of his conduct: Psalms 40:8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart. Jeremiah 31:33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. The word “law” here is a general term for the truth of God - for all that he has revealed to guide men. As long as that truth is in the heart; as long as it is allowed to guide us, so long will our words and conduct be right. Psalms 1:2-3 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
None of his steps shall slide - The idea is, that his course will be firm and steady without stumbling, and not be led from His precepts. Compare to Psalms 119:105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Psa 37:32 The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him.
The wicked watcheth the righteous and seeketh to slay him - Observes closely; looks out for him; has his eye on him, seeking an opportunity to slay him. The sense is, that the wicked are the enemies of the righteous, and seek to do them wrong. It is a common theme in Psalms that the faithful are always under threat from the devices of the wicked, but that they may trust the Lord to preserve them. It is a characteristic of the wicked that they seek to destroy the righteous. This was manifested in the case of the prophets; in the case of the apostles; in the case of the Savior; and it has been so manifest in the deaths of the martyrs, and all the persecutions which the Church has suffered, as to justify the general declaration that it is one of the characteristics of a wicked world that it desires to do this. So too does the true enemy as it says in 1Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Psa 37:33 The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.
The Lord will not leave him in his hand - Or power; but will in his own time deliver him from all the reproach, affliction, and persecution endures by him; as he will also deliver him out of all the temptations of Satan;
Nor condemn him when he is judged - literally, He will not regard or hold him to be guilty when he is judged. The Lord will regard and treat him as a righteous man. This may refer either
(a) to a case where a judgment is pronounced on a good man by his fellowmen, by which he is condemned or adjudged to be guilty - meaning that God will not so regard and treat him; or
(b) to the final judgment, meaning that then He will regard and treat him as righteous.
Nor condemn him when he is judged - He will not join in the sentence, but reverse it, and condemn the tongue that rises up in judgment against him, and save him from them; nor will the Lord condemn him when he is judged by Him at the last judgment; but will acquit him and introduce him into His kingdom and glory.
Psa 37:34 Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.
Wait on the Lord - Let your hope be from the Lord; depend wholly upon Him; have such confidence in Him as to expect His gracious interposition in your behalf. The word translated as “wait” according to some implies the extension of a right line from one point to another. The believer waits (one point) upon the Lord (the second point) the source of our faith and hope. Strong’s concordance refers to it as “wait”, a wait with a type of expectancy and patience. Waiting is an expression of loyalty and submission.
And keep his way - Or, walk in the path which He commands. Do not turn from that at any time. Do not allow any temptation, or any opposition, to cause you to swerve from that path. This is the true mode of waiting on God which the Scripture recommends; keeping God’s way - using all his ordinances, and living in the spirit of obedience.
When the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it - This implies that they would certainly be cut off, and that the righteous would be permitted to see the result of a course of righteousness and one of wickedness. It is not necessarily implied that they would have any satisfaction in seeing the punishment of the wicked; but the meaning is, that they would be permitted to live so as to see that one course of life tended to secure the favor of God, and another to incur His displeasure; that there was an advantage in virtue and faith in the Lord in this life. The result is so sure that a man may, if he live long, see it himself; and the fact that this is so should be an inducement for his leading a holy life. The psalmist proceeds, in Psalms 37:35-36, to illustrate this idea from his own observation.
Psa 37:35 I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.
In great power - The word used here means properly “terrible; inspiring terror.” It is applied to God in Jeremiah 20:11 But the LORD is with me as a mighty terrible one: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail: they shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper: their everlasting confusion shall never be forgotten and to powerful nations, Isaiah 25:3 Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. It is also used in a bad sense, as denoting violent, fierce, lawless, or a tyrant, Isaiah13:11; Isaiah 25:4-5; Job 15:20; Job 27:13. Here it may be used in the sense of one who was prosperous and mighty, and as referring to a man who wielded vast power; but there is connected with that also, undoubtedly, the idea that that power was wielded, not for purposes of benevolence, but for injustice, oppression, and wrong. It was a “wicked” man that was thus powerful.
And spreading himself - It is applied here to a tree that seems to pour itself out, or to spread itself out in every direction - sending its limbs aloft, and its branches far on every side.
Like a green bay tree - The original word properly means here “a native tree;” a tree that grows in its own soil, or that has not been transplanted. The idea here is that a tree which thus remains in its own soil is more vigorous, and will attain to a larger growth, than one which is transplanted; and thus the figure becomes an emblem of a prosperous and mighty man.
Psa 37:36 Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.
Yet he passed away - The allusion here, of course, is to the man, and not to the tree.
And lo, he was not - He was no more; there was no longer any such person: The word “lo” implies that there was some degree of surprise, or that what had occurred was not looked for or expected. The observer had seen him in great power, flourishing, rich, honored; and, to his astonishment, he soon passed entirely away. He was gone in an instant.
Yea, I sought him, but he could not be found - This is intended to confirm what had been just said, or to show how completely he had disappeared. It might be supposed, perhaps, that his removal was only temporary - that he was still somewhere upon the earth; but the psalmist says that after the most diligent search, he could not find him. He had disappeared entirely from among men. There was no remainder of him left.
Psa 37:37 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.
Mark the perfect man - In contrast with what happens to the wicked. The word “perfect” here is used to designate a righteous man, or a man who serves and obeys God. We are not perfect ourselves but made perfect through our faith in the Lord. The word “mark” here means “observe, take notice of.” The argument is, “Look upon that man in the end, in contrast with the prosperous wicked man. See how the close of life, in his case, differs from that of a wicked man, though the one may have been poor and humble, and the other rich and honored.” The point of the psalmist’s remark turns on the end, or the “termination” of their course; and the idea is, that the end of the two is such as to show that there is an advantage in faith in our Lord, and that God is the friend of the righteous.
And behold the upright - Another term for a pious man. Faith in our Lord makes a man upright; and if a man is not upright in his dealings with his fellowman, or if what he professes does not make him do “right,” it is the fullest proof that he has no true piety, 1 John 3:7-8 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
For the end of that man is peace – the peace we have reconciled to God, and our eternal destination. John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Romans 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: Romans 8:6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Psa 37:38 But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off.
Shall be destroyed together - The word “together” here means properly “a union of them;” The same word is used here which occurs in Psalms 37:37, as applied to the righteous. The meaning is, that while the “future” of the one would be peace, the future of the other would be a “cutting off,” or destruction.
the transgressors shall be destroyed together - This is to be understood of obstinate and continued transgressors, who live and die in their transgressions; John 8:24 I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. Matthew 25:41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:
the end of the wicked shall be cut off - these shall be cut off from the presence and sight of God, utter ruin and destruction; and so it stands opposed to the end of the perfect and upright man, which is eternal peace and happiness.
Psa 37:39 But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.
But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord - this comes from the Lord, and not from themselves. It is not owing to any power of their own that they are safe, but is solely because they are kept by the Lord.
The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord - It is the Lord who made them righteous, by blotting out their sins, and infusing his Holy Spirit into their hearts; and it is by his grace they are continually sustained, and finally brought to the kingdom of glory:
Psa 37:40 And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.
Because they trust in him - They rely on him, and not on themselves. They keep faith, prayer, love, and obedience in continual exercise. They continue to believe in, love, and obey God; and he continues to save them.
he shall deliver them from the wicked - this is repeated showing that the Lord will ultimately deliver his people from wicked and unreasonable men; he will not leave them in their hands; and he will free them to all eternity in the other world, where they shall cease from experiencing any trouble;
This verse is a summing up of the sentiments of the psalm, and is designed to confirm the main thought which runs through it, that we should not fret, or complain, at the prosperity of wicked men, Psalms 37:1. The reason ultimately assigned for this is, that whatever may be the danger of the righteous from the designs of wicked men, they will in the end be safe. It will go well with them, for the Lord will keep them. The general course of thought in the psalm is, that, whatever prosperity the wicked now have, it is temporary, for they will soon be cut off; and that whatever troubles now come upon the righteous, they too are temporary, and that their “hereafter” - “their futurity” - will be blessedness and peace. It is better to have God for our friend in life, and our support in death, than to have all the external prosperity of wicked men. Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
