An Oracle of Infinite Contrast

The Scriptures often contrast the righteous with the wicked. But the greatest contrast in Scripture, is not found amid human beings but between man and God. It is this infinite contrast that Psalm 36 features.

V. 1-4: Human beings, by nature, are born under transgression. Due to original sin, and our desperately wicked hearts, we are all bent toward sin. Take note of the progress of sin in the life of the wicked described in these verses. He begins by listening to the voice of evil in his heart. Sin then averts his eyes away from God. It then moves to the mouth as malice and deceit. From there, sin occupies the mind, so that even the night hours are consumed with plotting evil. And finally, evil is carried out, as he sets himself in a way that is not good.

V. 5-9: By contrast, God is infinitely magnificent and gracious. His steadfast love and faithfulness are vast and unsearchable, His righteousness impregnable and justice unfathomable. Besides being immense, God's attributes are also intimate. His steadfast love is precious to God's people. Those who find their refuge in God's presence and provision find a haven as well as abundance of joy and life.

V. 10-12: These verses tie together the previous seemingly disparate sections in an urgent prayer for the steadfast love of the Lord and His imputed righteousness to reach the place of human need. Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your righteousness to the upright of heart! (v. 10) In His infinite mercy, God extends His attributes toward His people and saves them from their enemies who are left powerless and vanquished.