Expert: Scott Talbot - 3/25/2009

Question
could you explain to me what Psalms 36 verse 1-4 means
and verse 9 means?

Answer
Hello Teiti Mary Marsters,

It's nice to hear from you all the way from Australia! (I'm in the United States.)

Let's take a look at Psalm 36 together:

1 An oracle is within my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. 2 For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin. 3 The words of his mouth are wicked and deceitful; he has ceased to be wise and to do good. 4 Even on his bed he plots evil; he commits himself to a sinful course and does not reject what is wrong.

5 Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. 6 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. 7 How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. 9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. 10 Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11 May the foot of the proud not come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away. 12 See how the evildoers lie fallen-- thrown down, not able to rise!

Psalm 36 is a psalm of David. In it, he contrasts the philosophy and lifestyle of unbelievers with that of the believer who basks in the love of God.

In verses 1-4, David receives an oracle (special revelation from God) regarding the wicked. He describes the wicked individual as having no fear of God; he seeks to soothe his conscience through rationalization; his words display wickedness; he lacks wisdom; he does not practice what is good; he schemes; he habitually practices sin; and he becomes more and more comfortable in his wickedness.

In verse 9, David is speaking about the believer and his relationship with God. In God is found abundant and fulfilling life. "Light" is often used in Scripture to denote truth or understanding. So he is speaking about a relationship that is based on a knowledge and understanding of God's truth.

I hope this helps. Feel free to write back if I can assist you further.

Scott