Psalm 37 explained: Don't Envy Those Who Do Wrong

Don't fret over them (vv. 1-2)

The problem here is the bitterness and envy that rise when cheats and bullies seem to thrive. Their success is compared to grass in a hot climate, green today and dried up soon.

Trust, delight, hand it over (vv. 3-6)

Instead of stewing, the reader is told to rely on the LORD, keep doing good, and find real joy in God. "Commit your way" can be read as "roll your way" onto him, like setting down a heavy load, with the promise that he will clear your name as plainly as the midday sun.

Be still and wait (vv. 7-11)

Quiet waiting is set against anger, which the psalm warns only drags a person into wrongdoing too. "Inheriting the land" meant a secure home in Israel's land, and Christians often read verse 11 alongside Jesus' saying that the meek will inherit the earth.

Plots that backfire (vv. 12-20)

The wicked draw swords against the poor, while the LORD laughs because he sees their day of reckoning coming. Their own weapons turn on them and their power vanishes like smoke, so a little held honestly is worth more than great wealth.

The generous and steady (vv. 21-31)

The good person is generous, speaks wisely, carries God's law inside, and though stumbling is held up. Verse 25 is the speaker's testimony from a long life, and other parts of the Bible, such as Job and Psalm 73, wrestle openly with good people who do suffer.

Look at how it ends (vv. 32-40)

Even when good people are hunted or dragged into court, the psalm insists the LORD will not abandon them. Its closing argument is to watch how lives turn out: the ruthless man who spread like a great tree was soon gone, while those who seek peace have a future.

Key verse: Psalm 37:7

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on whether the psalm's promises of land, safety and plenty describe how life usually goes in this world, or point mainly to a final setting right of things beyond this life.

Something to think about

When people who cheat or hurt others seem to do well, what makes it hard for you to let go of the anger, and what, if anything, helps?