Book 1: Psalm 1-41 God’s presence beside us
Title: To the chief musician, a Psalm of David the servant of the LORD.
I. The foolishness of the wicked is declared. (1-4)
A. Rebellion drives the arrogance of the foolish.
1. Rebellion is a central theme in sin.
2. Rebellion rejects the authority of God.
B. Rebellion blinds the foolish from their sin
1. Self-exaltation deceives the heart.
2. A perverse heart deceives the heart.
C. Rebellion leads the foolish to vanity and sin.
1. The words of the fool are vain.
2. The heart of the fool rejects wisdom.
D. Rebellion leads the foolish to depravity.
1. Every thought is devised for evil.
2. Every desire is to do evil,
II. The goodness of God is declared. (5-9)
A. The character of God produces wisdom.
1. God is merciful, righteous, faithful, and just.
2. God is salvation to all creation.
B. The character of God produces peace.
1. We trust in the God who loves us.
2. We thrive in the goodness of our God.
III. The prayer of the wise is declared. (10-12)
A. A plea for God to love the wise.
B. A plea for God to protect the wise.
C. A plea for God to judge the wicked.
Psalm 36 declares the distinct contrast between the foolishness of sin and the goodness of God. There is no fear of God in the heart and thoughts of the wicked. Their sin-driven arrogance leads them into the destruction of their way. In contrast, those who seek the mercy of the Lord will rejoice in the goodness and blessing of God throughout all their days. The righteous will never fall, but the wicked will be cast down.