Psalms 37:1

“Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.”

Psalm 37 is attributed to King David, who authored many of the Psalms. It is a wisdom psalm that provides guidance and encouragement to those who trust in the Lord amidst the challenges of life.

In verse 1, David begins by urging the reader not to fret or worry about evildoers or be envious of those who engage in wickedness. This verse serves as an introduction to the central theme of the entire psalm, which is focused on the righteous living in the midst of the prosperity of the wicked.

The term “fret not” implies that we should not become anxious, agitated, or disturbed because of the actions or success of evil people. It is a call to trust in God’s sovereignty and justice, knowing that He will ultimately bring about justice and judgment.

Additionally, David warns against being envious of the workers of iniquity. Envy can be defined as a feeling of discontent or resentment aroused by someone else’s possessions, qualities, or achievements. When we see the wicked prospering, it is natural to feel a sense of injustice. However, David advises against letting envy consume us because it can lead to bitterness, discontentment, and even a desire to engage in wrongdoing ourselves.

Instead of fretting and being envious, the psalm goes on to provide several reasons why the righteous should trust in the Lord and continue to live faithfully. These reasons include:

• Trusting in the Lord’s provision:Verses 3-4 encourage delighting in the Lord, committing our ways to Him, and trusting in Him to bring about our righteous desires.
• Resting in God’s sovereignty:Verses 5-6 emphasize that we should commit our way to the Lord, trust in Him, and allow Him to bring about justice and righteousness on our behalf.
• Finding peace and contentment in God:Verses 7-11 encourage patience, meekness, and refraining from anger. It reminds us that the wicked may prosper temporarily, but their end will come.
• Seeking righteousness and integrity:Verses 27-31 highlight the importance of living a righteous life, following God’s commands, and avoiding evil.
• God’s faithfulness and protection:Verses 39-40 assure the righteous that God will deliver them, uphold them, and protect them from the wicked.

Overall, Psalm 37:1 teaches us to place our trust in God and not be consumed by worry, anxiety, or envy when we see evil people prospering. Instead, we are called to live righteously, seek God’s guidance, and trust in His justice and provision. It is a reminder that God is in control and will ultimately bring about justice in His perfect timing.