Psalms 37:1-15

Psalm 37

By David.

37:1 Do not fret when wicked men seem to succeed!

Do not envy evildoers!

37:2 For they will quickly dry up like grass,

and wither away like plants.

37:3 Trust in the Lord and do what is right!

Settle in the land and maintain your integrity!

37:4 Then you will take delight in the Lord,

and he will answer your prayers.

37:5 Commit your future to the Lord!

Trust in him, and he will act on your behalf.

37:6 He will vindicate you in broad daylight,

and publicly defend your just cause.

37:7 Wait patiently for the Lord!

Wait confidently for him!

Do not fret over the apparent success of a sinner,

a man who carries out wicked schemes!

37:8 Do not be angry and frustrated!

Do not fret! That only leads to trouble!

37:9 Wicked men will be wiped out,

but those who rely on the Lord are the ones who will possess the land.

37:10 Evil men will soon disappear;

you will stare at the spot where they once were, but they will be gone.

37:11 But the oppressed will possess the land

and enjoy great prosperity.

37:12 Evil men plot against the godly

and viciously attack them.

37:13 The Lord laughs in disgust at them,

for he knows that their day is coming.

37:14 Evil men draw their swords

and prepare their bows,

to bring down the oppressed and needy,

and to slaughter those who are godly.

37:15 Their swords will pierce their own hearts,

and their bows will be broken.