Knowing how to respond to evil has been and continues to be a very difficult challenge for God’s children. Should we respond to evil by trying to bring justice in our human strength or should we remain in a place of trust and steadily seek to overcome evil with good? (Ro 12:21). Some times it looks like evil is gaining the upper hand. However, no matter what we face, we must demonstrate God’s love for all, trust the Lord, and pray for wisdom, because when God rescues his people, justice will prevail. Remember, God writes the future for his children, as well as for the wicked.
In our passage today, David sings about two different futures awaiting humanity. Nothing good awaits the wicked in the future; only destruction. It may look like they are flourishing, but that success is short lived. However, for the righteous who make the Lord their refuge, they are rescued and brought into a place of peace. “While trouble overthrows the wicked, it only drives the righteous to their strong Helper, who rejoices to hold them (Spurgeon). David reiterates the value and power of a person placing his or her trust in God. Do you trust the Lord with the challenges you may be facing?
Psalms 37:34-40 NLT
34
Put your hope in the Lord.
Travel steadily along his path.
He will honor you by giving you the land.
You will see the wicked destroyed.
35
I have seen wicked and ruthless people
flourishing like a tree in its native soil.
36
But when I looked again, they were gone!
Though I searched for them, I could not find them!
37
Look at those who are honest and good,
for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace.
38
But the rebellious will be destroyed;
they have no future.
39
The Lord rescues the godly;
he is their fortress in times of trouble.
40
The Lord helps them,
rescuing them from the wicked.
He saves them,
and they find shelter in him.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for helping us trust and rest in your provision of grace and strength. We will follow and do things your way as we praise you for your love. May our hearts be filled with gratitude, today, as you deliver us from evil. In Jesus’ name.