Psalms 36:11
Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.
Psalms 36:11 (KJV)
Context
Psalm 36 is attributed to King David and is described as a psalm of David, the servant of the Lord. It contrasts the wickedness of the ungodly with the steadfast love and faithfulness of God. In the immediate context, verse 10 asks for God’s lovingkindness and righteousness to be shown to those who know Him, and verse 12 declares that the workers of iniquity have fallen and are cast down. Verse 11 stands as a personal plea for protection within this larger prayer.
Meaning
The verse contains two parallel requests. First, “Let not the foot of pride come against me” uses the image of a foot to symbolize the aggressive, oppressive actions or schemes of arrogant enemies who seek to trample the psalmist. Second, “let not the hand of the wicked remove me” pictures the power and influence of evildoers that could drive him away from his place or cast him down. Together, these phrases ask God to guard against both the influence of pride and the harm inflicted by the wicked.
David’s prayer reflects his humility and dependence on God. He does not rely on his own strength but seeks divine protection. The Hebrew text emphasizes the personal nature of the plea, and the verse can also be understood as applicable to any haughty enemy of Christ and His people. Some commentators see it as particularly referring to the antichrist, the man of sin who exalts himself above all that is called God. The hand of the wicked could remove one from the house of God or from a high station and dignity.
Biblical connections
The psalmist’s confidence is rooted in God’s character, as earlier verses declare that with God is the fountain of life and in His light we see light. This verse serves as a model prayer for believers to seek protection from pride and wickedness, trusting in God’s steadfast love and righteousness.
Application
Prayer: Like the psalmist, we should bring our concerns and fears before God in prayer. We can ask for protection from the prideful actions of others and seek deliverance from the hands of the wicked. God invites us to cast our burdens upon Him because He cares for us.
Guard against Pride: Pride can lead to destructive behavior and hinder our relationship with God. By cultivating humility and recognizing our dependence on Him, we can guard ourselves against the harmful effects of pride and experience God’s protection in our lives.
Trusting God’s Plan: When facing opposition or adversity, we should trust in God’s sovereignty and seek His guidance. God has the power to protect us and direct our paths. Through faith, we can rest assured that God is working all things together for our good, even in the face of wickedness.
Reflection
This verse encourages us to align our desires with God’s will. The psalmist seeks protection against the schemes of the wicked, not for personal gain, but to fulfill God’s purpose in his life. It reminds us to prioritize God’s plans and seek His guidance, knowing that His will is ultimately what’s best for us.
