What does Psalm 37:28 mean?
Keeping with the theme of God's perspective on good and evil (Psalm 37:27), David reminds the reader of the Lord's love of justice and His faithfulness to the righteous. Because He is good and loves what is right, we can trust Him to do the right thing in every time and every situation. He will never abandon the righteous. Even in times of hardship (John 16:33; Psalm 34:19), God is with His people.Hebrews 13:5 encourages believers not to be discouraged about what we have, for that very reason. God promises to keep those who come to Him in faith, with an absolute guarantee (John 10:28). When Peter described the inheritance of the Lord's people as being kept in heaven for them, he also described the Lord's people as being guarded by God's power through faith (1 Peter 1:4–5).
In contrast, the God who loves justice will not allow the wicked and their children to endure. This verse says they will be cut off; this is a reference to utter destruction. Those who do evil in the world can usually expect to suffer the natural consequences of that sin (Romans 1:24–28; Isaiah 14:22). That leads to ruin both for them and the descendants they teach to follow in their footsteps (Exodus 34:6–7).
Psalm 37:21–31 points out the blessings of the righteous. David describes not only their blessings but also their character and conduct. The Lord blesses the righteous with the promise of an inheritance, personal guidance, protection, provision, a good posterity, and His presence.
In this psalm, David contrasts the way God protects and saves His people, contrasted with the ruin which awaits the wicked. Much of this seems to be based on David's own experiences (Psalm 37:25, 35). As with many other passages in Psalms and Proverbs, this passage encourages godly wisdom. Those who reject God and His ways can expect uncertainty on earth and disaster in eternity.
