Tyndale Open Study Notes

Verse 1

Ps 36 This lament contrasts the world of folly devised by the wicked with the world of wisdom created and sustained by the Lord. The wicked care only about themselves, whereas the Lord cares for all of creation. He will intervene to bring about justice in his world. The righteous will enjoy his protection, but the wicked will perish.

36:1-4 Fools despise what is wise and good as they pursue evil.

36:1 no fear of God: Paul includes this phrase in his description of the depravity of all people (Rom 3:18).

Verse 5

36:5-9 As the source of wisdom, the Lord is reliable and incomparable. His faithful care extends to all parts of the created order.

36:5-6 God’s all-encompassing goodness surpasses that of the created order. God graciously meets his people’s practical needs.

Verse 6

36:6-9 All creatures live by God’s grace (1 Tim 4:10).

Verse 7

36:7-8 God invites all humanity to the banquet in his house (cp. Prov 9:1-6).

Verse 9

36:9 Light represents salvation and celebration (18:25-29; 27:1; cp. 35:6).

Verse 10

36:10-11 Since God’s wisdom extends to all of creation, it protects the godly.

Verse 12

36:12 The psalmist remains confident that the disorder caused by the wicked (36:1-4) will end when they meet their demise.