Psalms 36
Psalm 36 is divided broadly into three parts. First, the psalmist describes the characteristics of the wicked and the state of their hearts (verses 1–4). Next, he beautifully sings of God’s character—his love and justice, his faithfulness and protection (verses 5–9). Finally, he asks for God’s goodness and protection and closes with praise (verses 10–12). In this way, Psalm 36 invites us to reflect on the true peace and safety that come through our relationship with God, by contrasting darkness (the wicked) and light (God).
1verseFor the Chief Musician. By David, the servant of the LORD. A revelation is within my heart about the disobedience of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes.
2verseFor he flatters himself in his own eyes, too much to detect and hate his sin.
3verseThe words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit. He has ceased to be wise and to do good.
4verseHe plots iniquity on his bed. He sets himself in a way that is not good. He doesn’t abhor evil.
5verseYour loving kindness, LORD, is in the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
6verseYour righteousness is like the mountains of God. Your judgments are like a great deep. LORD, you preserve man and animal.
7verseHow precious is your loving kindness, God! The children of men take refuge under the shadow of your wings.
8verseThey shall be abundantly satisfied with the abundance of your house. You will make them drink of the river of your pleasures.
9verseFor with you is the spring of life. In your light we will see light.
10verseOh continue your loving kindness to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.
11verseDon’t let the foot of pride come against me. Don’t let the hand of the wicked drive me away.
12verseThere the workers of iniquity are fallen. They are thrust down, and shall not be able to rise.
Explanation of the Main Content
- Verses 1–4: The psalmist realizes that there is no fear of God in the depths of the wicked’s hearts. They trust only themselves, deceive with evil words, and plot evil without doing good.
- Verses 5–9: A dramatic description of God continues. God’s kindness, faithfulness, righteousness, and judgment are sung grandly, and we see that those under his protection experience abundant blessings.
- Verses 10–12: The psalmist asks that God’s grace and justice continue to come, and he prays that he would be protected from the hands of the proud and from the wicked. In the final verse, he adds that the wicked will ultimately fall and will not be able to rise again, and he concludes.
Points for Reflection
- How are God’s love and truth being revealed in my life?
- In a world where evil and good coexist, who is the one I should rely on?
- If I believe I am under God’s protection, what kind of peace and assurance can I experience today?
Apply It to Me
- I look back to see whether there are times when fear of God decreases even in my own inner self.
- I take time to trust and give thanks more specifically for God’s kindness and truth and for his righteousness in my life.
- In the face of difficulties or temptation, I make a firm decision to ask God again for my protection and guidance, and to entrust myself to him.
