Read Psalm 37:1-22.

David knew a little something about righteous anger (see Ephesians 4:26). And in Psalm 37, he shares the wisdom he gained dealing with the tremendous injustices enacted against him.

First, he says we ought to be encouraged by what we do not see. “Do not fret because of those who are evil” (Psalm 37:1). Why? Because “like the grass they will soon wither” (v. 2). Those who sin against us may appear to be happy and successful, but they are often angry and guilt-ridden. They lack peace. And ultimately, the wicked never prosper. We can be encouraged by these eternal Truths of a present yet hidden reality.

Second, David says we ought to be encouraged by what we already have. He says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart” (v. 4). If we learn to delight in God above all else, then no one and nothing will shake us—because all our heart’s desires will be met in Him. If your desire is His desire and your will is to do His will, if your delight is His delight and your joy is His joy, then He has become everything to you, and He promises to give you even more of Himself—your heart’s treasure.  

Third, we ought to be encouraged by what is coming to us. King David says, “[T]hose who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. . . . the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity” (vv. 9, 11). Friend, you will one day reign and rule with Christ. You will inherit what Jesus inherits as His co-heir (see Romans 8:17).

Finally, David says we should be encouraged because God’s judgment is coming to the wicked. “The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them, but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming” (vv. 12-13). There is a coming Judgment Day, and it will be unbearable for all who refuse the gift of salvation. If you knew what God knows about the future, you would not waste a nanosecond being jealous of the success of the wicked.

Friend, no matter what sufferings you endure in this life, they “are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18).  

Prayer: Father, thank You that Your justice is perfect and will be complete at Your coming. I praise You for Your gracious promises of an eternal inheritance in heaven with You. May Your love support me when I struggle with the prosperity of the wicked. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found” (Psalm 37:10).

Learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef’s sermon Encouraging Words in Discouraging Times, Part 2: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOW

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