Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 36

This psalm of David contrasts the wickedness of ungodly human beings with the goodness and generosity of the LORD.

1-4: The Wickedness of the Ungodly

Revealed in their:

• Thoughts (vs 1-2)
• Words (vs 3)
• Actions (vs 4)

5-9: The Expanse of God’s Character Traits

• His mercy and faithfulness extends to the skies
• His righteous judgments reach the mountain heights and sea depths
• His mercy overshadows and protects all of creation
• His abundance nurtures and sustains all of humanity
• He is the Fountain of Life, whose Light gives us light.

10-12: Plea for Protection for the Wicked

• David pleads for a continual experience of God’s mercy and righteousness, and protection from the ungodly. 
• It is a fitting conclusion for a psalm that contrasts the selfish focus of the wicked with the generous disposition of the LORD to all creatures.
• Like the LORD, the righteous are large of heart, but the wicked are narrow-minded and self-centred