Psalms 37:3-5

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

Settle in the land and maintain your integrity! ¹ 

37:4 Then you will take delight in the Lord, ² 

and he will answer your prayers. ³ 

37:5 Commit your future to the Lord! ⁴ 

Trust in him, and he will act on your behalf. ⁵ 

[37:3]  ¹ tn Heb “tend integrity.” The verb רָעָה (ra’ah, “tend, shepherd”) is probably used here in the sense of “watch over, guard.” The noun אֱמוּנָה (’emunah, “faithfulness, honesty, integrity”) is understood as the direct object of the verb, though it could be taken as an adverbial accusative, “[feed] securely,” if the audience is likened to a flock of sheep.

[37:4]  ² tn Following the imperatives of v. 3 the prefixed verbal forms with vav (ו) in v. 4 indicate result. Faith and obedience (v. 3) will bring divine blessing (v. 4).

[37:4]  ³ tn Or “and he will give you what you desire most.” Heb “and he will grant to you the requests of your heart.”

[37:5]  ⁴ tn Heb “roll your way upon the Lord.” The noun “way” may refer here to one’s activities or course of life.

[37:5]  ⁵ tn Heb “he will act.” Verse 6 explains what is meant; the Lord will vindicate those who trust in him.