Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryPsalms 37

Trusting God Instead of Envying the WickedThis psalm teaches us how to live faithfully for God, even when we see evil people succeed. David encourages us not just to understand these truths, but to put them into practice in our lives. The instructions are clear: don’t be upset or jealous when those who do wrong seem to prosper. Instead, focus on trusting God and following Him, because His way is best in the end.v. 1–2: David warns us not to be troubled or jealous of people who do evil and appear to be successful. He says, Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity (Psalm 37:1 ). Their success is temporary. Just like grass or green plants, they may look strong for a short time, but soon they will wither and be gone (Psalm 37:2 ).

v. 3: We are told to trust in the Lord

v. 4: David instructs us to delight in God. He says, Delight thyself also in the Lord

v. 5–6: We are told to commit our way to the Lord

Rest in the Lord and Wait Patiently This section teaches us to trust God and be patient, even when it seems like evil people are succeeding. David is encouraging us not to be upset or worried when we see people doing wrong and seeming to get away with it. Instead, we should focus on trusting God, doing good, and waiting for Him to act in His perfect time.v. 7: Rest in the Lord

Exhortations and PromisesIn these verses, David continues to give practical advice on how to live a life that pleases God. He teaches that happiness and security come from following God's ways, not from doing evil or envying the wicked. David lists qualities of a righteous person and explains the blessings that come from living by faith and obedience. He also gives promises for those who trust in the Lord

v. 22: Those blessed by God will inherit the land, while those cursed by Him will be cut off. David writes, For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off . True security comes from God’s blessing.

v. 23: God guides the steps of good people. David says, The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord

v. 24: Even when a righteous person falls into trouble or makes a mistake, God will not let him be destroyed. David says, Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord

v. 25: David shares his own experience, saying, I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread . God takes care of His faithful people and their families.

v. 26: Righteous people are always ready to help others. David says, He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed . Generosity brings blessings to their descendants.

v. 27: David urges everyone to turn from evil and do good. He says, Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore . Choosing God’s way leads to lasting security.

v. 28: God loves justice and will not abandon His faithful people. David says, For the Lord

v. 29: The righteous will inherit the land and live there forever. David says, The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever . This points to God’s promise of an everlasting home for His people.

v. 30–31: David describes a righteous person’s speech and heart. He says, The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide (Psalm 37:30–31 ). Those who love God’s Word speak wisely and walk securely.

v. 32–33: The wicked may try to harm the righteous, but God will not let them succeed. David says, The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him. The Lord

Exhortations and PromisesDavid concludes this psalm with the same themes he has repeated throughout: trust in God, follow His ways, and wait patiently for Him. He contrasts the destiny of the wicked with the blessings promised to the righteous. This final section encourages believers to hold fast to their faith, knowing that God's justice and salvation will prevail.v. 34: David instructs us to Wait on the Lord

v. 35–36: David reflects on the temporary success of the wicked. He says, I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree (Psalm 37:35 ). But their prosperity does not last. They pass away, and soon they are gone, leaving no trace behind (Psalm 37:36 ).

v. 37: David encourages us to observe the lives of the righteous. He says, Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace . While the wicked face destruction, the righteous find peace and comfort, both in this life and in eternity.

v. 38: In contrast, the wicked will be destroyed. David writes, The transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off . Their rebellion against God leads to their downfall and eternal separation from Him.

v. 39–40: David concludes with a promise of salvation for the righteous. He says, The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord