One of the greatest truths in Scripture is that God is loving, gracious, merciful, kind, and patient. His love reaches beyond what we can fully comprehend. Yet the Bible is equally clear that God does not overlook, excuse, or approve of wickedness and evil. Because God is holy and righteous, He opposes sin and will ultimately judge it.
Psalm 36 paints a vivid picture of the wicked and contrasts their ways with the goodness of God.
The Characteristics of the Wicked
David begins by describing the heart of those who reject God’s authority:
“There is no fear of God before their eyes.” (Psalm 36:1)
The fear of God is not terror but a reverent respect and awe for Him. When people lose that reverence, they begin to follow their own desires rather than God’s ways.
Psalm 36:2-4 reveals several traits of the wicked:
- They deceive themselves. They convince themselves that their sins are hidden or acceptable.
- They speak deceitfully. Their words are dishonest and harmful rather than truthful and wise.
- They deliberately plan evil. Even while resting, they devise ways to carry out wicked schemes.
- They refuse to reject sin. Evil becomes a chosen lifestyle rather than something they resist.
This reminds us that sin begins in the heart before it appears in actions.
The Greatness of God’s Character
After describing human wickedness, David turns his attention to God’s nature:
“Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.” (Psalm 36:5)
God’s:
- Love is limitless.
- Faithfulness never fails.
- Righteousness is unshakable.
- Justice is perfect.
While evil may seem powerful for a season, God’s character remains constant forever.
Why We Should Not Envy the Wicked
Psalm 37 continues this theme by reminding believers not to be troubled when wicked people appear to prosper.
“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong.” (Psalm 37:1)
Although evil people may seem successful temporarily, their prosperity is short-lived.
“For like the grass they will soon wither.” (Psalm 37:2)
God sees every act of injustice, and no evil escapes His notice.
What God’s People Should Do
Instead of focusing on the apparent success of the wicked, believers are called to:
- Trust in the Lord (Psalm 37:3)
- Delight in the Lord (Psalm 37:4)
- Commit their way to the Lord (Psalm 37:5)
- Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him (Psalm 37:7)
- Refrain from anger and wrath (Psalm 37:8)
- Turn from evil and do good (Psalm 37:27)
God’s people are not called to take revenge but to remain faithful and trust God’s justice.
The Certain End of Wickedness
Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that evil will not endure forever.
“For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.” (Psalm 37:9)
David observed that wicked people may flourish for a time:
“I have seen a wicked and ruthless man flourishing like a luxuriant native tree.” (Psalm 37:35)
Yet he concludes:
“But he soon passed away and was no more.” (Psalm 37:36)
Psalm 36 ends with a similar picture of the final defeat of evildoers:
“See how the evildoers lie fallen—thrown down, not able to rise!” (Psalm 36:12)
A Message of Hope
God’s judgment against wickedness is not contrary to His love. In fact, His holiness and justice are expressions of His perfect character. Because God is good, He cannot approve of evil. Because He is just, He will judge sin. Because He is loving, He offers mercy and salvation to all who repent and turn to Him through Christ.
“The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord; he is their stronghold in time of trouble.” (Psalm 37:39)
When evil seems to prevail, remember: God is still on His throne. The wicked may prosper for a moment, but God’s righteousness will stand forever. Therefore, trust in Him, walk in His ways, and take refuge in His unfailing love.
Minister A Francine Green, August 2026