Bible Study on Psalm 36 explores the powerful contrast between human wickedness and the immense, abundant goodness of God. Authored by David, the psalm shifts dramatically from detailing the deceitful heart of the wicked to praising the immeasurable attributes of the Lord, concluding with a prayer for protection and a confident view of divine justice.

Overview

Psalm 36 is an instructive text that can be broken into three main sections:

• The Wicked Heart (Psalm 36:1–4): The psalm begins with a profound, almost "oracle-like" analysis of the nature of sin and the heart of the wicked.
• The Delightful God (Psalm 36:5–9): This section pivots to a glorious, panoramic description of God's character, using majestic imagery to describe his love, faithfulness, righteousness, and justice.
• The Prayer and Prophecy (Psalm 36:10–12): David concludes with a heartfelt prayer for himself and the righteous, ending with a prophetic vision of the ultimate downfall of the wicked.

Verse-by-verse notes

The Heart of the Wicked (Psalm 36:1–4)

David describes the inner state of the wicked. He notes that the wicked are characterized by a lack of the fear of God, which is the root of their actions. Their self-deception prevents them from recognizing and hating their sin. Their words are wicked and deceitful, showing they have abandoned wisdom and doing good. They actively plot wickedness and refuse to reject evil.

The Greatness of God (Psalm 36:5–9)

In contrast to human wickedness, David extols God's magnificent attributes. He describes God's lovingkindness as extending to the heavens and His faithfulness to the skies. God's righteousness is like the mighty mountains, and His judgments are like a great deep, while He preserves all creation. David highlights the preciousness of God's lovingkindness, which leads people to trust in His protection. Those who take refuge in God experience His abundant provision and delight. God is the source of all life and spiritual light. You can find the full verses in the referenced documents.

Prayer and Prophecy (Psalm 36:10–12)

David prays for God to continue showing His lovingkindness and righteousness to those who know Him. He asks for protection from the proud and wicked. The psalm concludes with a confident declaration that the wicked will fall and be unable to rise, a prophetic certainty of God's ultimate justice. You can find the full verses in the referenced documents.

Application questions

• How do you see the self-deception of the wicked (Psalm 36:1–4) reflected in society today, and perhaps even in your own heart?
• Which of God's immense attributes described in Psalm 36:5–9 is most meaningful to you right now? How can you meditate on that truth more deeply?
• How does understanding the contrast between human wickedness and God's holiness affect your appreciation for his mercy?
• What does it mean for you to take "refuge in the shadow of His wings" (Psalm 36:7)? How can you practice this daily?
• The psalm describes feasting and drinking from the "river of Your delights" (Psalm 36:8). In what specific ways have you experienced God's abundant provision and joy in your life?
• If God is the "fountain of life" and the source of "light" (Psalm 36:9), how can you intentionally draw from that source for spiritual vitality and clarity?
• David's prayer is for a continuing experience of God's love and righteousness (Psalm 36:10). Why is this an ongoing need for believers?
• The psalm ends with the assurance of the wicked's fall (Psalm 36:12). How does this hope in God's ultimate justice comfort you in the face of ongoing evil?