Understanding Psalm 11:3 in Plain Language

If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “when the foundations are destroyed,” you might wonder what it really means—and why it matters, especially in today’s world. This phrase comes from Psalm 11:3 in the Bible, and it paints a picture of what happens when core values and basic rules that hold society together start to break down.

What Does “Foundations” Mean?

In the Bible, “foundations” aren’t about buildings—they’re about the basic things that keep a community strong and fair. This includes:

• Law and justice: Rules that help people live together peacefully.
• Doing what’s right: Treating people fairly and honestly.
• Truth and trust: Believing in what’s good and dependable in society.

When these “foundations” are shaken or destroyed, it’s like the ground beneath us is giving way. The things we once relied on—like fairness, honesty, and order—start to disappear.

Why Is This Important?

Psalm 11:3 originally spoke to a time when the world seemed to be falling apart. People saw injustice, chaos, and fear everywhere. But the message isn’t about giving up—it’s about holding on. The writer says that even if everything crumbles, those who do what is right can find safety by trusting God, who still sees and cares about what’s happening.

How Does This Relate to Our World Today?

Right now, many people feel that the “foundations” of society—like democracy, truth, and respect for the law—are being threatened. We see

• More violence and division
• Political fights that seem endless
• Attacks on education, science, and expertise
• People ignoring rules that used to be respected

This can make us feel anxious, angry, or even hopeless.

The Role of the Press

In times like these, the press (journalists, reporters, media) plays a key role. Think of the press as the “watchdog” for society. When the foundations shake, the press helps by:

• Checking facts and exposing lies
• Holding leaders accountable
• Shining a light on injustice
• Giving people the information they need to make good decisions

Without a strong, independent press, it’s harder to protect the things that keep our society together.

What Can We Do?

The Bible’s advice is simple: Don’t give in to despair. Instead,

• Look for truth and do what’s right, even when it’s hard
• Support those who stand up for justice and honesty
• Trust that good can still win, even when things look dark

Believing in and working for a better society is never wasted effort.

If the “foundations” feel shaky, remember: it’s not just about what’s lost, but about what we can still do to rebuild and protect what matters most.

Minister A Francine Green

September 2025