Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 11

The psalmist affirms his faith in the righteous God. Even though the world appears hopelessly chaotic, both the godly and the wicked can depend on God’s justice. The godly can depend on him as a refuge and shelter.

• God offers protection (refuge; see Psalms 5:11; 9:9; 25:20) when justice fails.

• The mountains offer another place of refuge (see Psalm 121:1).

In the ongoing struggle between those who do evil and those who follow God, the wicked often harm the righteous. This can leave the godly confused and full of questions.

The wicked live in the shadows and create gloom for the godly (Psalms 82:5; 139:11; 143:3; Proverbs 4:19).

The wicked create a world of darkness (see Psalms 82:5).

The righteous King rules from heaven, where his throne remains free from human corruption (see Psalm 2:4). He examines everyone and sees everything that happens on earth (see Psalm 14:2–3).

• hates: See Psalm 5:4–6; Proverbs 6:16–18.

• Wicked deeds result in destruction and violence (Psalms 58:2; 73:6; 74:20).

God sent fiery coals and burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) as symbols of judgment (Psalms 18:8; 120:4; 140:10).

The godly are assured of the Lord’s favorable presence when they see his face (see Psalm 23:6).