To the choirmaster. Of David, the servant of the Lord.
A picture of the wicked.
v.1-4 The wicked person:
1. Transgression speaks to him deep in his heart (v.1) “Rebellious to the core” (NET)
2. He has no fear of God (v.1) (See also Rom. 3:18)
3. He flatters himself in his own eyes (v.2) (so much that he cannot see his sin)
4. His words are trouble and deceit (v.3)
5. He has ceased to act wisely or do good (v.3)
6. He plots trouble on his bed (v.4) — scary
7. He sets himself in a way that is not good (v.4)
8. he does not reject evil (v.4)
For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. (Matt 15:19)
A picture of God
v.5-9 Praise to God and God’s favor on his people
1. Your steadfast love extends to the heavens,
2. your faithfulness to the clouds.
3. Your righteousness is like the mountain of God.
4. Your judgments are like the great deep.
5. Man and beast you save.
6. How precious is your steadfast love.
7. Man takes refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8. They feast on the abundance of your house.
9. You give them drink from the river of your delight.
10. With you is the fountain of life.
11. In your light do we see light.
“Great is thy faithfulness”
v.10-12 Request that God will deliver the righteous from the evildoers (they [the evil doers] are thrust down, unable to rise. [v.12])
If we know, and love, and uprightly serve the Lord; no proud enemy, on earth or from hell, shall separate us from his love. (MHC)