Steps of Good Man Ordered by The Lord: Psalm 37

Introduction:  Psalm 37 gives us guidance that offers profound wisdom on how to navigate through life. It provides valuable insights on dealing with wickedness, trusting in God and living a righteous life. This psalm was written by David, who, over the years, learned to trust in God in the midst of trials and tribulations. As we delve into the exploration of Psalm 37, we will see the contrast between the wicked and the righteous, the promises of God, and the enduring hope that comes from trusting in God.

I. Psalm 37:1-2 – Do not fret because of the wicked.
David begins by dissuading his listeners from being perturbed by the prosperity of the wicked. He assures them that their success is temporary (Job 20:5), as they will soon fade like grass (Isaiah 40:7). This reassurance is echoed in Proverbs 24:19-20 which also advises against fretting over evil men or being envious of the wicked.

II. Psalm 37:3-6 – Trust in the Lord and do good.
David encourages his listeners to trust in God and continue doing good. He promises that those who trust in God will live safely and prosper (Proverbs 28:25). He further encourages his audience to find delight in the Lord who will then grant them their heart’s desires (Psalm 20:4). David’s call to commit everything to the Lord is echoed in Proverbs 16:3.

III. Psalm 37:7-9 – Be still and patient.
The theme of patience and stillness runs through these verses. David reassures his listeners that those who wait patiently for the Lord will inherit the land (Isaiah 49:23). He warns against anger and wrath, cautioning that such emotions bring about evil (Ephesians 4:26).

IV. Psalm 37:10-15 – The fate of the wicked.
David prophesies about the fate of the wicked, stating that they will soon disappear. He notes that though they plot against the righteous, they will be broken (Proverbs 11:21). He illustrates this with the metaphor of a broken bow which is also found in Jeremiah 49:35.

V. Psalm 37:16-22 – The blessing of the righteous.
David underscores the blessings of the righteous. He notes that little with righteousness is better than the wealth of the wicked (Proverbs 15:16). He reassures that the Lord supports the righteous (Psalm 55:22), while the heritage of the wicked will be cut off (Proverbs 10:28).

VI. Psalm 37:23-29 – The steps of the righteous.
David explains that the steps of the righteous are ordered by the Lord (Proverbs 20:24). He provides comfort by stating that even when they fall, they will not be cast down because the Lord holds them up (Psalm 145:14). He reassures that the righteous will inherit the land (Matthew 5:5).

Conclusion: Psalm 37 offers a guide to facing life’s uncertainties and challenges. It contrasts the temporary prosperity of the wicked with the enduring blessings of the righteous. It encourages a life of trust in God, patience, and righteousness. Regardless of the seeming success of the wicked, the Psalm assures us of the ultimate triumph of the righteous. The exploration of this Psalm illuminates the wisdom of David and provides us with the reassurance that our steps are ordered by the Lord. It encourages us to continue in our path of righteousness, with the firm belief that we will inherit the promise of God.