What is the difference between the righteous and the wicked? Is it simply that the righteous generally do the right thing while the wicked do not? While that is partially true, it’s not the full story. As seen in our study of the second book of Psalms, the primary difference between the righteous and the wicked relates to their understanding of God as a just judge. The righteous believe that God is just and that He will hold all people accountable for what they do. They live in a healthy fear of God. The wicked do not believe that God sees what they do, or that He cares.
In today’s reading, David complains about his enemies, saying, “They encourage each other in evil plans, they talk about hiding their snares; they say, ‘Who will see it?’” (v. 5). These enemies work together to slander David to try to bring him down. They are not restrained by any sense that God will judge them for their actions. However, David knows better. In a profound statement of faith in God, David declares that his enemies will be judged for their actions (vv. 7–8).
There is beautiful symmetry in God’s judgment. David’s enemies slandered him and used their words like arrows in order to bring about his destruction (vv. 3–4). But the reality is that God “will shoot them with his arrows; they will suddenly be struck down. He will turn their own tongues against them and bring them to ruin” (vv. 7–8). Like a boomerang, the attacks of the enemy will bounce off David and rebound upon themselves. God’s justice will lead people to both proclaim the glory of God and ponder what He has accomplished (v. 9).
>> David’s hope in a just God is our hope as well. While in this life the wicked may seem to get away with evil, we know that ultimately justice will be done. Take a moment today to ponder what God has done and proclaim it to others (v. 9).
Pray with Us
We join David’s praise—his hope in a just and loving God is our hope as well. The same God works in our lives, giving us a hope and a future. Praise the Lord!
BY Ryan Cook
Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.