What does Psalm 37:3 mean?

David continues his wise counsel (Psalm 37:1–2) by telling his audience to put their confidence in the Lord and do what's right. Those concepts are inseparable: trusting God and obeying Him go hand in hand. The book of James was written to teach that legitimate faith leads to related works. James 2:18 comments, "Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works." Chapter 2 ends by insisting that "faith apart from works is dead" (James 2:26). Legitimate faith leads to good works in keeping with that faith (John 14:15).

The command to "dwell in the land" echoes the New Testament's call to "abide" in Christ (John 15). The meaning is something more than merely existing or surviving (Galatians 5:16). The following verses speak about delight and commitment. To "dwell" in the land, or to "abide" in one's faith, requires wholehearted engagement (Deuteronomy 6:5; Luke 10:27).

Another way to see this statement is in contrast to an English expression, "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence." The cliché describes how people often think different will be better, instead of recognizing the good we already have. That might apply to our church, our family, or other aspects of our lives (1 Timothy 6:6). Israel's real-world experience with the Promised Land typifies God's will for His people (Hebrews 3:15–19). When we refuse to enter it, we're choosing our own fears or preferences over the will of God (Hebrews 3:12–13).