Psalm 37: Promises for when the Wicked Prosper

I made a list of all the things God promised, both to the wicked and to the righteous. Then I reread my list. "Do I really believe this?" I had to ask myself. The promises are so great.Almost fantastical. Imagine the God who created the universe caring, helping, protecting and providing for me. From a naturalist point of view this is weird. Unbelievable. But for those who are born of the Spirit, who have the Spirit of God indwelling them, these promises are a bedrock of confidence and comfort.

Here is a partial list of the promises.

Promises for the Wicked

• They will fade like a leaf.
• They will be cut off.
• Their sword shall enter their own heart.
• They will perish.

Promises for the Righteous

• If they delight in God, God will give them the desires of their heart.
• If they commit their way to him and trust in him, he will act.
• They will have an abundance of peace.
• God will bring forth their righteousness as the light. He will vindicate them.
• God will give them justice.
• God will uphold and help them.
• God will provide for them in famine.
• Their children will be a blessing.
• God will not abandon them to the power of the wicked.
• God will not forsake them.

Verses 39-40 sum it up.

The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord;
    he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.
⁴⁰ The Lord helps them and delivers them;
     he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
    because they take refuge in him. (ESV)

Prayer 

Dear God, help me to really believe this and to trust you when times are tough.