Psalm 36 Devotional
By Pastor Lawrence

In this psalm David contrasts the sinfulness of wicked men with the steadfast love of the Lord then calls upon the Lord in his love to protect his people by overruling the plots of evildoers. In the first four verses he describes the inner thoughts and the secret plots of the wicked. Unable to hear the voice of the Lord, the wicked man is attentive to the voice of transgression that speaks to the inner recesses of his heart daily. This is not a man who wrestles with his sin or struggles to do right, but one who has no fear of God before his eyes. He still knows deep down that God is his maker and judge but he foolishly thinks that God doesn’t know what he’s thinking and can’t see what he does in the dark. He no longer seeks to muzzle his mouth but false and perverse speech freely flows from his spigot. Likewise, his hands have ceased from doing any good dedicating them solely to his wicked deeds. Even on his bed late at night and in the early hours of the morning he plotting evil, even in his dreams.

How can God’s people ever feel safe and secure in the presence of such men? In contrast to the deep and abiding hatred of the wicked upon the earth, the Lord’s steadfast love extends above the heavens and his faithfulness above the clouds. His righteousness is higher than any mountain and his judgments deeper than any sea. Thus, there is no place on earth devoid of his presence and power, no place beyond his tender care. And David takes great comfort under the shadow of his wings, fleeing to God as his refuge.

But God does not merely protect his people, but provides for them from the abundance of his house according to his steadfast love. God does not simply dole out rations to his chosen people but causes them to feast in his house and to drink from the river of his delights, giving them everlasting light and life along the way. And in light of these precious promises, David cries out to God to continue to show forth his steadfast love to him even in the midst of his enemies and to not let the wicked put him to shame.

Regardless of our particular adversities, there is much to be gained by meditating upon the great steadfast love, faithfulness, righteousness and judgment of the Lord. There are pleasures to be found at his right hand, and life and light to help us in our journey. Of course, we see find all of these things in God’s Son, the very love and wisdom of God. He is the friend who sticks closer than a brother.