02.037. Psalm 37

Psalms 37:1-40 A Psalm of David. This psalm is wholly of the instructive kind. As the Mosaic system, and the covenant between God and Israel, as his peculiar people, promised remarkable temporal felicity to such as were obedient to the law, and denounced temporal miseries against those that were impious and profane; so the psalmist here cautions against stumbling at particular providences, which might appear contrary to the tenour of that covenant. Here are, (1.) Plain and express warnings against fretfulness at the prosperity of the wicked, in their wickedness, Psalms 37:1, Psalms 37:7-8; with the arguments and reasons enforcing the same, viz. that the character of the wicked is ignominious, while that of the righteous is honourable, Psalms 37:12, Psalms 37:14, Psalms 37:21, Psalms 37:26, Psalms 37:30-32; that the wicked, in the very height of their prosperity, are near to destruction, while the righteous, even in their adversity, have special protection from God, and shall never be ruined, Psalms 37:2, Psalms 37:9-10, Psalms 37:13, Psalms 37:15, Psalms 37:17, Psalms 37:20, Psalms 37:28, Psalms 37:33-40; and that God hath special blessings in store for, and even in this life manifests distinguished kindness to, the righteous and their seed, Psalms 37:11, Psalms 37:16, Psalms 37:18-19, Psalms 37:22-25, Psalms 37:28-20, Psalms 37:37. (2.) Here are proper and effectual remedies to prevent sinful fretting at the prosperity of the wicked, or troubles of the godly, viz. hoping in God as our Saviour; delighting in God as our companion, friend and portion; following him as our guide; departing from evil and doing good; waiting on the Lord, and keeping his way, Psalms 37:3-6, Psalms 37:27, Psalms 37:34. Be thou, my soul, an accurate observer, of the matter and circumstances of every providence. Carefully compare them one with another; and all with perfections, covenant, and promises of God; in order that thou mayest never be offended thereat.