What does Psalm 37:11 mean?

This verse is quoted—or at least echoed—by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:5). The "meek," in this context, is not a reference to those who are timid or shy. The Hebrew word used here implies humility, as does the equivalent Greek term used in the New Testament. Those who humbly submit themselves to the will of God might be powerful in their personalities, but still "meek" in their lack of arrogance and egotism. Moses, for example, was a meek man (Numbers 12:3). He humbly did God's will by confronting Pharaoh and by leading the Hebrews through the wilderness.

Prior verses reiterated that evil people will be destroyed (Psalm 37:9–10). Those who trust God not only experience security in their minds (Psalm 37:1–2), they are also destined for godly peace (Isaiah 32:17).

The "land" referred to here is the land of Israel, but looking forward into the future. One day, a generation of believing Jews and Gentiles will live in Israel when Jesus, the Prince of Peace, establishes His kingdom there. At that time peace will prevail and wild animals will lose their savagery. Isaiah 2:4 predicts that wars will cease. Nations will convert their weapons into farm implements. Isaiah 11:6–7 predicts, "The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the young goat, and the calf and the lion and the fattened calf together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall graze; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox." Isaiah also wrote: "For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace" (Isaiah 55:12).