Psalms 37:10

Commentary on Psalms 37:10 (KJV)

Psalms 37:10 declares, "For yet a little while, and the wicked [shall] not [be]: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it [shall] not [be]." This powerful verse offers profound comfort and a clear statement of divine justice, urging believers to trust in God's timing rather than despair over present injustices.

Context

Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm attributed to David, designed to encourage and instruct the righteous who often observe the prosperity of the wicked and feel disheartened. It is an acrostic psalm, emphasizing the orderly and complete nature of God's truth. The psalm repeatedly contrasts the temporary success of the unrighteous with the enduring blessing and ultimate inheritance of those who trust in the Lord. This verse, in particular, serves as a direct assurance, continuing the theme that begins in Psalms 37:1, which counsels against fretting over evildoers.

Key Themes

• Divine Justice and Timing: The phrase "yet a little while" highlights God's perfect and often surprising timing. While the wicked may seem to flourish for a season, their downfall is certain and imminent in God's eternal plan. This underscores the certainty of God's judgment and His commitment to righteousness.
• Transience of Wicked Prosperity: The verse assures the reader that the seemingly stable position or influence of the wicked is fleeting. Their power, wealth, and presence will vanish, leaving no trace.
• God's Sovereignty and Control: It reaffirms that God is ultimately in control of all circumstances. He sees, He knows, and He will act, ensuring that justice prevails. This offers immense hope to those who face oppression or injustice.
• Assurance for the Righteous: For those who remain faithful and trust in God, this verse provides a strong foundation for patience and perseverance. It contrasts sharply with the eternal inheritance promised to the righteous, as seen in the very next verse, where the meek shall inherit the earth.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated "shall not be" (Hebrew: 'ayin) signifies "nothingness" or "non-existence." It doesn't necessarily imply annihilation but rather a complete disappearance from their place of prominence, power, or even physical presence. The wicked will be sought, but they will not be found in their former state or location. The phrase "diligently consider" (Hebrew: bin) means to discern, perceive, or understand thoroughly. It suggests a careful search or examination of the wicked's former place, only to find it utterly empty of their influence or presence.

Practical Application

Psalms 37:10 calls believers to cultivate patience and unwavering trust in God's divine justice. It serves as a powerful antidote to envy and discouragement when facing the apparent success of the ungodly. Instead of fretting or taking matters into our own hands, we are encouraged to:

• Trust God's Timeline: Understand that God's timing is perfect, even if it doesn't align with our immediate expectations.
• Focus on Righteous Living: Rather than being preoccupied with the wicked, invest energy in living righteously, committing your way to the Lord, and delighting in Him (Psalms 37:4-5).
• Find Comfort in God's Sovereignty: Rest in the assurance that God will ultimately set all things right. This truth echoes the sentiment found in Proverbs 11:21, "Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished."
• Be Patient and Hopeful: This verse reminds us that the perceived triumph of evil is temporary, and God's justice will prevail, bringing lasting peace and security to the righteous.