The Bible Says
Psalm 37:27-34 Meaning

Psalm 37:27-34 is traditionally attributed to David (circa 1010-970 BC), who was Israel’s second king and a significant figure in biblical history. As the psalm continues in verse 27, it calls readers to take action for lasting blessings, declaring, Depart from evil and do good, So you will abide forever (v. 27). This instruction presents a stark contrast between rejecting a destructive path and embracing a wholesome course of life that aligns with God’s character. Such a choice to turn away from wickedness is more than a moral guideline-it is an invitation to a life grounded in divine favor and permanence.

David reveals that an intentional turning from wrongdoing is not merely a momentary decision, but a continual endeavor to pursue what is upright. Living in constant refusal of evil opens the door for the blessings promised by God, emphasizing both a temporal and eternal dimension. In the New Testament, Paul exhorts believers to continually renew their minds for lasting transformation (Romans 12:2). These complimentary teachings highlight the essence of heartfelt obedience, marking the believer’s journey with real spiritual growth and stability.

Carrying on in verse 28, the psalmist proclaims, For the LORD loves justice And does not forsake His godly ones; They are preserved forever, But the descendants of the wicked will be cut off (v. 28). This affirms the constancy of God’s devotion to what is fair and righteous. He not only loves justice, but He remains ever faithful to His people, assuring them of His unceasing care. Despite the apparent successes of the wicked, their final outcome is far from secure.

This statement about the descendants of the wicked underscores the generational impact of evil choices. God’s justice extends beyond one individual’s wrongdoing or faithfulness, indicating that a person’s legacy can either endure in righteousness or meet an unfortunate end. The comfort here is that God’s loyal ones will enjoy enduring protection, reflecting God’s deeper plan to establish a righteous community that lasts.

Moving on, verse 29 offers another strong affirmation of God’s favor: The righteous will inherit the land And dwell in it forever (v. 29). The promise of land in the Old Testament was highly significant to the people of Israel, symbolizing a tangible place of God’s provision and care. By proclaiming that they will dwell there indefinitely, this verse reminds believers of the continuity of God’s covenant blessings.

For modern readers, the notion of inheriting land can also be metaphorical, representing security, hope, and peace. Jesus echoes this same assurance when He declares that the meek will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). Both promises indicate the gift of a secure place, sustained by God’s gracious hand for those who choose the path of sincere obedience.

In verse 30, the psalmist describes the words of those who follow the Lord, stating, The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, And his tongue speaks justice (v. 30). Here, righteous speech is portrayed as an overflow of moral insight and a heart aligned with divine truth. To speak justice suggests speaking truth in a manner that reflects God’s standard, upholding what is equitable and fair.

Such godly speech stands in strong opposition to those who use words to deceive or harm. When one’s words flow from a place of wisdom, they build unity and reflect a foundation grounded in spiritual truth. In the New Testament, James urges believers to be mindful of their speech, recognizing that the tongue holds the power to bless or to curse (James 3:9-10). Psalm 37:30 anticipates that theme, highlighting the righteousness that must reside behind godly words.

Continuing this thought, verse 31 proclaims, The law of his God is in his heart; His steps do not slip (v. 31). This picture emphasizes an internalization of divine instructions, making God’s Word a guiding force and compass in life. When the law dwells within one's heart, obedience becomes more than a matter of external compulsion; it becomes an expression of genuine devotion.

By keeping God’s truth at the forefront, the righteous person maintains a sure footing on life’s path. While life may be fraught with obstacles, temptations, and uncertainties, a heart saturated with God’s instruction stands firm. Therefore, the righteous avoid stumbling, because their foundation remains securely built on spiritual wisdom.

Verse 32 shifts attention to the hostility of evil toward the faithful: The wicked spies upon the righteous And seeks to kill him (v. 32). This line portrays the real dangers believers can face in a fallen world. Evil often targets those devoted to living by God’s ways, intending to harm or oppress them.

Yet the psalm does not suggest that the wicked always succeed in their schemes. Instead, these words alert believers to be vigilant, trusting in the greater power of God’s protection. Later passages affirm that we wrestle against spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12), but as David points out, God is ultimately the One who upholds and secures the future of His faithful people.

David gives further assurance in verse 33, stating, The LORD will not leave him in his hand Or let him be condemned when he is judged (v. 33). Here, the righteous person finds comfort in the reality that God will not abandon them even under the threat of violence or false accusations. God stands as the ultimate Advocate and Judge who upholds justice.

This signals a clear message of hope: no matter how dire the circumstances, the faithful have firm grounds to trust that God oversees every matter. His authority outshines earthly judgments. If believers remain faithful to God, they can depend on His sustaining grace, confident that He sees beyond human verdicts or corrupt intentions.

Finally, verse 34 exhorts, Wait for the LORD and keep His way, And He will exalt you to inherit the land; When the wicked are cut off, you will see it (v. 34). Patience and perseverance take center stage here. The psalm encourages readers to place their unwavering confidence in God’s timing, remaining steadfast in obedience even when immediate results are scarce.

In the end, staying true to the Lord’s path leads to an elevated place of blessing and witness. The righteous will see evil’s downfall, reminding us of a day when God definitively deals with wrongdoing. This verse challenges believers to continue hoping in the ultimate redemption and restoration that God has promised, pointing us forward to the culmination of His just rule.