A Psalm of David. Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. Psalm 37:1

How do you view or evaluate this scripture?

Do you see it as a person merely speaking on God’s behalf?

How does this scripture satisfy any longing?

Is this verse a recommendation, instruction, or element of poetry?

Can you say, “I know the author is someone who has tried and trusted the Lord. He had a true relationship and experience with God. He knew God intimately?

David is giving encouragement and wisdom in the Word of God. He is not making up a story – but telling one that he lived. David walked in the path of friends and faithful believers. Yet, he sat and dined among backstabbing, deceitful, and hateful men.

David became a man after God’s own heart. He knew how to stomach the truth about himself and other people. David knew the power of evil. He knew that within himself – was the goodness of the Lord. David experienced wanting to do good and having evil present on every hand.

14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. 19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. 20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. Romans 7:14-21

1 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. Psalm 37:1

In this verse, David directs our attention to traitors. He also mentions the spirit of anger and bitterness. Jealousy is highlighted as well. These are all avenues that opens the door to sin.

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Ephesians 4:26

13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. James 3:13-16

Over the years, I watched my children and grandchildren make some of the same mistakes I made in life. They all listened to my words about not going in the wrong direction. Perhaps, they did not believe my experience. Maybe they believed they would overcome my weakness by committing sin in another way. I never wanted them to followed my path away from God’s perfect will. Truthfully, I know sin is compelling.

2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Psalm 37:2

This verse is a promise from God spoken by David. This man had documented sin on his account (2 Samuel 11). In his sinful state, David repented. He knew the power of God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness. God could have slaughter David in his sins – but he had other plans for his life. David wrote this Psalm so believer’s in the faith – would not make the same mistakes that haunted his life.

When it seems like family members and friends are not listening, cast every care on the Lord at that moment. People can tell when we are preaching and teaching from the flesh. Let God’s Word do the talking. Allow His wisdom to counsel not our self-centered desires.

In essence, these two scriptures say, “Follow me as I follow Christ”. Some battles we fight – some we don’t. The key to success in a Christian Believer’s life, is to listen then obey a Godly spoken word. Don’t just be a hearer – be a doer.

21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. James 1:21-25

And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. Exodus 14:13