Psalms 36
BSB1 An oracle is in my heart regarding the transgression of the wicked man: There is no fear of God before his eyes. 2 For his eyes are too full of conceit to detect or hate his own sin. 3 The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful; he has ceased to be wise and well-doing. 4 Even on his bed he plots wickedness; he sets himself on a path that is not good; he fails to reject evil. 5 Your loving devotion, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds. 6 Your righteousness is like the highest mountains; Your judgments are like the deepest sea. O LORD, You preserve man and beast. 7 How precious is Your loving devotion, O God, that the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings! 8 They feast on the abundance of Your house, and You give them drink from Your river of delights. 9 For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light. 10 Extend Your loving devotion to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11 Let not the foot of the proud come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away. 12 There the evildoers lie fallen, thrown down and unable to rise.
Study Notes — Psalms 36
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Psalms 36
- Themes from Psalms 36
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Psalms 36
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Psalms 36 begins by describing the wickedness of humanity, noting how the wicked deceive themselves and do not fear God (Psalms 36:1-4). In contrast, the psalmist declares God's righteousness and lovingkindness, which reach to the heavens and are a refuge for all who trust in Him (Psalms 36:5-9). The psalmist prays for God's mercy and lovingkindness to continue, that he might rejoice in God's salvation and walk in the light of His presence (Psalms 36:10-12). The chapter concludes with a warning to the wicked, who will ultimately be brought down by their own evil, while the righteous will be upheld by God's righteousness (Psalms 36:12). Throughout the chapter, the psalmist emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's lovingkindness and seeking refuge in His presence.
Context for the Chapter
Psalms 36 is part of the first book of the Psalms, which includes Psalms 1-41. This chapter is a wisdom psalm, which reflects on the nature of God and humanity, and encourages believers to trust in God's lovingkindness. The chapter is likely a product of the post-exilic period, when the Jewish people were struggling to rebuild their lives and their relationship with God. The themes of the chapter, including the importance of trusting in God's lovingkindness and the warning to the wicked, would have been particularly relevant to the Jewish people during this time.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Psalms 36, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's lovingkindness and seeking refuge in His presence. We are encouraged to examine our own hearts and lives, and to turn to God in repentance and faith. We are also reminded of the importance of warning others of the dangers of wickedness and the importance of trusting in God's righteousness.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Psalms 36 is a chapter that reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's lovingkindness and seeking refuge in His presence. The psalmist declares God's righteousness and lovingkindness, and encourages believers to trust in Him. The chapter also warns the wicked of the dangers of their evil ways, and reminds believers of the importance of trusting in God's righteousness. As we read this chapter, we are encouraged to examine our own hearts and lives, and to turn to God in repentance and faith (Psalms 36:1-4).
Voices from the Church
“The lovingkindness of God is a sea without a shore, a mine without a bottom, a fountain without a fountainhead.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The righteousness of God is the foundation of all His works, and the standard by which He evaluates all human behavior.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Wickedness of Humanity (Psalms 36:1-4) — The chapter begins by highlighting the wickedness of humanity, which is characterized by a lack of fear of God and a deception of oneself.
- The Righteousness and Lovingkindness of God (Psalms 36:5-9) — The psalmist declares God's righteousness and lovingkindness, which are the foundation of His relationship with His people.
- The Refuge of God's Lovingkindness (Psalms 36:7-9) — The psalmist declares that God's lovingkindness is a refuge for those who trust in Him, and that it is precious and valuable.
- The Warning to the Wicked (Psalms 36:10-12) — The chapter concludes with a warning to the wicked, who will ultimately be brought down by their own evil.
- The Prayer for God's Mercy and Lovingkindness (Psalms 36:10-12) — The psalmist prays for God's mercy and lovingkindness to continue, that he might rejoice in God's salvation and walk in the light of His presence.
Core Doctrines
- Total Depravity
- Psalms 36:1-4 teaches us that humanity is totally depraved, and that our wickedness is a result of our rebellion against God.
- God's Lovingkindness
- Psalms 36:5-9 teaches us that God's lovingkindness is a fundamental aspect of His character, and that it is the foundation of His relationship with His people.
- Refuge in God
- Psalms 36:7-9 teaches us that God is a refuge for those who trust in Him, and that His lovingkindness is a precious and valuable thing.
- Warning to the Wicked
- Psalms 36:10-12 teaches us that the wicked will ultimately be brought down by their own evil, and that God will judge them for their wickedness.
Lessons from Psalms 36
- The Importance of Trusting in God's Lovingkindness — The chapter teaches us that trusting in God's lovingkindness is essential for our relationship with Him, and that it is the foundation of our salvation.
- The Warning to the Wicked — The chapter warns the wicked of the dangers of their evil ways, and reminds believers of the importance of trusting in God's righteousness.
- The Refuge of God's Lovingkindness — The chapter teaches us that God's lovingkindness is a refuge for those who trust in Him, and that it is precious and valuable.
- The Character of God — The chapter teaches us that God's lovingkindness is a fundamental aspect of His character, and that it is the foundation of His relationship with His people.
- The Importance of Seeking Refuge in God — The chapter teaches us that seeking refuge in God is essential for our salvation, and that it is the key to experiencing God's lovingkindness and mercy.
Themes from Psalms 36
- Human Depravity — The chapter teaches us that humanity is totally depraved, and that our wickedness is a result of our rebellion against God.
- God's Lovingkindness — The chapter teaches us that God's lovingkindness is a fundamental aspect of His character, and that it is the foundation of His relationship with His people.
- Refuge in God — The chapter teaches us that God is a refuge for those who trust in Him, and that His lovingkindness is a precious and valuable thing.
- Warning to the Wicked — The chapter warns the wicked of the dangers of their evil ways, and reminds believers of the importance of trusting in God's righteousness.
- The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter teaches us that trusting in God is essential for our relationship with Him, and that it is the foundation of our salvation.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the chapter teach us about the nature of humanity, and how does this relate to our need for God's salvation?
- How does the psalmist describe God's lovingkindness, and what are the implications of this for our relationship with God?
- What warning does the chapter give to the wicked, and how does this relate to the importance of trusting in God's righteousness?
- How can we apply the teachings of this chapter to our own lives, and what practical steps can we take to trust in God's lovingkindness?
- What does the chapter teach us about the character of God, and how does this relate to our understanding of His love and mercy?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Wickedness of Humanity (Psalms 36:1-4)
| 36:1 | The psalmist declares that the wickedness of humanity is characterized by a lack of fear of God and a deception of oneself. |
| 36:2 | The wickedness of humanity is also characterized by a flattering of oneself, and a lack of awareness of one's own sin. |
| 36:3 | The wickedness of humanity is also characterized by a lack of repentance, and a refusal to turn to God. |
| 36:4 | The wickedness of humanity is also characterized by a plotting of evil, and a delight in doing wickedness. |
2. The Righteousness and Lovingkindness of God (Psalms 36:5-9)
| 36:5 | The psalmist declares God's righteousness and lovingkindness, which are the foundation of His relationship with His people. |
| 36:6 | The psalmist declares that God's righteousness is like the great mountains, and that His judgments are like the great deep. |
| 36:7 | The psalmist declares that God's lovingkindness is a refuge for those who trust in Him, and that it is precious and valuable. |
| 36:8 | The psalmist declares that God satisfies the desire of every living thing, and that He is the fountain of life. |
| 36:9 | The psalmist declares that in God's light, we see light, and that He is the source of all wisdom and understanding. |
3. The Refuge of God's Lovingkindness (Psalms 36:7-9)
| 36:7 | The psalmist declares that God's lovingkindness is a refuge for those who trust in Him, and that it is precious and valuable. |
| 36:8 | The psalmist declares that God satisfies the desire of every living thing, and that He is the fountain of life. |
| 36:9 | The psalmist declares that in God's light, we see light, and that He is the source of all wisdom and understanding. |
4. The Warning to the Wicked (Psalms 36:10-12)
| 36:10 | The psalmist prays for God's mercy and lovingkindness to continue, that he might rejoice in God's salvation and walk in the light of His presence. |
| 36:11 | The psalmist declares that the wicked will ultimately be brought down by their own evil, and that God will judge them for their wickedness. |
| 36:12 | The psalmist declares that the righteous will be upheld by God's righteousness, and that they will rejoice in His salvation. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Psalms 36?
The main theme of Psalms 36 is the contrast between human depravity and God's lovingkindness, and the importance of trusting in God's righteousness and lovingkindness.
What does the chapter teach us about the nature of humanity?
The chapter teaches us that humanity is totally depraved, and that our wickedness is a result of our rebellion against God (Psalms 36:1-4).
What does the chapter teach us about God's lovingkindness?
The chapter teaches us that God's lovingkindness is a fundamental aspect of His character, and that it is the foundation of His relationship with His people (Psalms 36:5-9).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Psalms 36:1 → Romans 3:10-18 | The wickedness of humanity is a theme that is also explored in Romans 3:10-18, where Paul declares that all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. |
| 2 | Psalms 36:5 → Psalms 103:8 | The lovingkindness of God is a theme that is also explored in Psalms 103:8, where the psalmist declares that God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. |
| 3 | Psalms 36:7 → Matthew 23:37 | The image of taking refuge in the shadow of God's wings is a theme that is also explored in Matthew 23:37, where Jesus declares that He longs to gather His people under His wings, as a hen gathers her chicks. |
| 4 | Psalms 36:10 → Psalms 23:4 | The prayer for God's mercy and lovingkindness is a theme that is also explored in Psalms 23:4, where the psalmist declares that God's rod and staff comfort him, even in the valley of the shadow of death. |
| 5 | Psalms 36:11 → Proverbs 10:9 | The warning to the wicked is a theme that is also explored in Proverbs 10:9, where the wise man declares that the upright will dwell in the land, but the wicked will be cut off. |
| 6 | Psalms 36:12 → Isaiah 54:17 | The declaration that the righteous will be upheld by God's righteousness is a theme that is also explored in Isaiah 54:17, where the prophet declares that no weapon formed against the righteous will prosper. |
| 7 | Psalms 36:1-4 → Ephesians 2:1-3 | The wickedness of humanity is a theme that is also explored in Ephesians 2:1-3, where Paul declares that we were all once dead in our trespasses and sins, and that we followed the course of this world. |
| 8 | Psalms 36:5-9 → 1 John 4:8 | The lovingkindness of God is a theme that is also explored in 1 John 4:8, where the apostle declares that God is love, and that whoever does not love does not know God. |
| 9 | Psalms 36:7 → Luke 13:34 | The image of taking refuge in the shadow of God's wings is a theme that is also explored in Luke 13:34, where Jesus declares that He longs to gather His people under His wings, as a hen gathers her chicks. |
| 10 | Psalms 36:10 → Philippians 4:19 | The prayer for God's mercy and lovingkindness is a theme that is also explored in Philippians 4:19, where Paul declares that God will supply all our needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. |
Sermons on Psalms 36
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Christmas Question by C.H. Spurgeon | The sermon transcript describes the pitiable condition of those who died from hunger and cold in the streets. It then transitions to a depiction of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, |
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Attributes of God (Series 2): The Goodness of God by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unchanging truth that God is good, regardless of the evil and darkness present in the world. He encourages listeners to experience God's |
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Attributes of God (Series 1): God's Goodness by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that all the attributes of God are different aspects of one God in three persons. He encourages the listeners to think right and align their |
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A Place to Hide by Jim Cymbala | Jim Cymbala emphasizes the priceless nature of God's unfailing love and the refuge it provides, likening God to a protective bird under whose wings we can find safety. He explains |
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(Guidelines) Read the Bible by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching and teaching the Word of God. He quotes Dr. Morgan who said that inspiration is 95% perspiration, highlighting th |
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Releasing the Life of Jesus by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having the life of Jesus flowing in believers. He highlights the need for a new kind of evangelism that can combat the dea |
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Spiritual Warfare - 1 "The Battle" by Jim Logan | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a troubled young man who experienced a downward spiral in his life due to the influence of evil spirits. The speaker empha |
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Psalms - Part 1 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of filling one's heart with the Word of God rather than simply avoiding evil. He references the story of a demon being cast ou |
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Useful for the Master - Part 3 by Jackie Pullinger | This sermon emphasizes God's love and faithfulness towards His people, highlighting the sacrificial nature of Jesus' love and the call for believers to reciprocate that love by sur |
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Addressing the Spirit of Poverty - Part 1 by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the yearning in a person's heart for a place where everything is alright, like the Jubilee mentioned in the Bible. He shares a story of a you |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Psalms 36
Matthew Henry's commentary on Psalms 36 emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's lovingkindness and seeking refuge in His presence. Henry notes that the chapter teaches us that humanity is totally depraved, and that our wickedness is a result of our rebellion against God. He also emphasizes the lovingkindness of God, which is a fundamental aspect of His character, and which is the foundation of His relationship with His people. Henry declares that the righteous will be upheld by God's righteousness, and that they will rejoice in His salvation. He encourages believers to trust in God's lovingkindness, and to seek refuge in His presence, where they will find comfort, wisdom, and understanding. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Contrast Between Human Depravity and God's Righteousness
The chapter begins by highlighting the wickedness of humanity, but quickly shifts to declaring God's righteousness and lovingkindness. This contrast serves to emphasize the depth of human sin and the height of God's graciousness.
The Importance of Trusting in God's Lovingkindness
The psalmist repeatedly emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's lovingkindness, which is the foundation of His relationship with His people. This trust is the key to experiencing God's refuge and salvation.
The Warning to the Wicked
The chapter concludes with a warning to the wicked, who will ultimately be brought down by their own evil. This warning serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of trusting in God's righteousness and lovingkindness.