Psalm 37:21-40

“The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand.” (Psalm 37:23–24, ESV)

In Psalm 37, David addresses the problem of dealing with evil people. He presses his listeners to always trust the LORD and to make Him their refuge. When we do this, then we can trust in God’s salvation. He will sustain us and deliver us from the hand of the wicked.

In our hearts we plan our course. When we abide in His word, we have confidence that He is working in our hearts, sanctifying us by His truth. As we delight ourselves in Him, He gives us the desires of our hearts (v. 4). As we act on these in faith, then He establishes our steps. He makes sure they continue in His way. Even if we should stumble and fall, then He will help us up if we will humble ourselves and confess our sins.

“Wait on the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land. When the wicked are cut off, you shall see it.” (Psalm 37:34, NKJV)

This is the theme of this psalm. How we need patience to wait on the LORD! When Samuel told Saul to wait for him to offer the sacrifices, Saul waited for seven days. But as pressure mounted from the Philistines, and the men’s hearts gave way to fear so that they were scattering, Saul offered the sacrifices himself, which he was not allowed to do (1 Samuel 13). When Samuel arrived, he rebuked Saul for acting foolishly and said that his kingdom would not continue. Saul wrongfully took matters into his own hands rather than waiting patiently for the LORD.

 If we wait on the LORD and keep our feet in His path, then He will take care of our enemies. He will make known His way to us and exalt us to inherit the land in peace.

“Heavenly Father, please help us to wait in faith upon you and not look to our own devices. Establish our steps today in your will and help us not to stumble. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”