Read: Psalm 37:1-11
Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. (vv. 1-2 NIV)
Are you feeling anxious about conflict in the world? I know I am. News broadcasts and social media feeds show us wars around the world, and violence and unrest in our own communities. It’s nothing new—evil has been part of the world since Adam and Eve left the garden. But there are times when it makes me feel helpless, and a little hopeless.
David, the writer of today’s Bible reading, knew conflict intimately. King Saul, who had lost his way, was continually attempting to kill David. Psalm 37 reflects some of the terror and threats that David faced. Although this psalm is not a prayer per se, it reflects David’s confidence in God’s protection over his life. He knew the fate of Saul and all evil men was that “like grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.” (v. 2 NIV). In a spirit of prayer, the psalm writer encourages his listeners to “be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.” (v. 7 NIV).
The well-known pastor, Martin Lloyd-Jones, pointed to this psalm as a key reason why he did not fear Adolf Hitler during World War II. He, and praying people like him, knew that “evildoers shall be cut off” (v. 9) and face a certain defeat.
As you pray, ask God to defeat the evil schemes of the wicked.
About the Author
Rev. John C. Koedyker is an ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America. He has served as a missionary to Japan as well as pastor of several churches in Iowa and Michigan. Until recently he served Muskegon Classis as its Stated Clerk for 18 years. He resides in Grand Haven, Michigan.
