Psalms 11

Ps 11 The psalmist affirms his faith in the righteous God. Even though the world appears hopelessly chaotic, both the godly and the wicked can count on God’s justice. The godly can depend on him as a refuge and shelter.11:1 God provides protection (or refuge; see 5:11; 9:9; 25:20) when the foundations of justice collapse. • The mountains provide another place of refuge (see 121:1).

11:2-3 In the inevitable battle between the evil and the godly, the wicked cannot tolerate the righteous, so they victimize them. This seems to leave the godly with nothing but questions.11:2 The wicked live in the shadows and create gloom for the godly (82:5; 139:11; 143:3; Prov 4:19).

11:3 The wicked create a world of darkness (see 82:5).

11:4 The righteous King rules from heaven, where his throne is untouched by human corruption (see 2:4). He examines everyone and sees everything that happens on earth (see 14:2-3).

11:5 hates: See 5:4-6; Prov 6:16-18. • Wicked deeds result in destruction and violence (Pss 58:2; 73:6; 74:20).

11:6 God rained blazing coals and burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 19) as symbols of judgment (Pss 18:8; 120:4; 140:10).

11:7 The godly are assured of the Lord’s favorable presence when they see his face (see 23:6).