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Psalms 11

7 verses

TL;DR

The psalm conveys a deep trust in God amid the peril posed by the wicked, emphasizing divine oversight and righteous judgment.

Summary

The psalm begins by expressing the psalmist’s trust in the LORD and contrasts this confidence with a rhetorical question about fleeing like a bird to a mountain. It then describes the wicked as archers, ready to strike the upright. The psalm questions what the righteous can do if the foundations are destroyed, implying human helplessness before God. It shifts to assurance that the LORD dwells in his holy temple and watches all humanity. The psalm declares that the LORD tests the righteous, despises violence, and will rain snares, fire, and a terrible storm upon the wicked. Finally, it affirms that the LORD loves righteousness and keeps a watchful eye on the upright.

Outline
  1. Expression of trust and human helplessness
  2. Depiction of the wicked as armed archers and their threat
  3. Assurance of divine judgment and protection for the righteous
Themes
Trust in GodDivine justiceRighteousness versus wickedness
Keywords
trustwickednessuprightnessdivine judgmentrighteousnesssafetyprotection
People
the LORDthe wickedthe upright
Places
holy templeheavenmountain
Things
bowarrowsnaresfire and brimstonehorrible tempestcup
Key Verses
  • Psalms 11:1: Sets the tone of trust and the rhetorical challenge to the soul
  • Psalms 11:4: Emphasizes God's presence in the temple and His all‑seeing eye
  • Psalms 11:6: Shows the decisive divine judgment against the wicked
Questions
  • What does this psalm suggest about trusting God when faced with danger?
  • How does the psalm characterize the nature and threat of the wicked?
  • What assurance does the psalm give to the righteous about God's oversight?
Sentiment

mixed
contains warnings of doom for the wicked but also hopeful assurance for the faithful