Devotion: Psalm 36 is a song written by David. It is interesting to read because it feels like it could be two separate psalms. The first part talks about the wickedness of men. Then it does a complete 180 degree turn to talk about the love of God.
I have a message from God in my heart
concerning the sinfulness of the wicked:
There is no fear of God
before their eyes.
In their own eyes they flatter themselves
too much to detect or hate their sin.
The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful;
they fail to act wisely or do good.
Even on their beds they plot evil;
they commit themselves to a sinful course
and do not reject what is wrong.
Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.
Continue your love to those who know you,
your righteousness to the upright in heart.
May the foot of the proud not come against me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
See how the evildoers lie fallen—
thrown down, not able to rise!
While they seem like two distinct parts, the contrast of the first and second halves of this psalm are important in order for us to fully understand what David is getting at. To start, he talks about the wickedness of men. He writes about how they do not even see their evil ways. They are blind to their own sin. And because they are deceived and cannot see the evil in their own life, they do not reject it. They never repent of it.
This is where the contrast comes in. Rather than denying our sin, we can confess our sin and rest in the steadfast love of the Lord. David’s description of the sinful nature of men helps us to more fully understand the overwhelming love of our God. That is what He is helping us to see here. God’s love is true light. We can take refuge in the shadow of His wings. We need not let our sin keep us from God, as He sent His Son for this very reason. Instead, we can find comfort and peace in His faithful, all-consuming love.
Reflect:
- Read through Psalm 36 again. How does the contrast of the two parts help you to more fully understand God’s love?
