Psalm 37 (36):17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Amid your troubles, do you not feel your footing falter? You have been given a poignant example in the sufferings of Christ. Reflect on what He endured for your sake, without any justification for His suffering. No matter how intense your tribulations may be, you cannot compare them to the mockery, the lashes, the disgraceful garment, the crown of thorns, and ultimately the Cross which He bore; for such hardships are no longer part of human punishment. In times past, this was the fate of criminals, yet today, crucifixion is no more. It transformed from a punishment into a source of honor. The significance of the Cross has evolved from a site of execution to one of imperial reverence. Who grants such dignity to His passions, and what remains for His devoted followers?

Consider whether the current Psalm's declarations were realized in him. The Lord fortifies the righteous. Furthermore, as the Apostle Paul, who faced numerous trials, emphasized: "We also boast in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance, and perseverance character, and character hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given to us." Romans 5:3-5 This statement affirms that he is justified and now strengthened. Just as those who once tormented him could inflict no damage when he was empowered, he, in turn, did no harm to those he previously persecuted. Indeed, the Lord strengthens the righteous.

The Lord placed His hand upon His servant and weakened the strength and force of the sinner. The sinner laid his hand upon God's servant, having been granted such authority. The deceiver was misled by his own words, as he dared not say ‘shall blaspheme,’ but implied it instead: Stretch out Thy hand to him, and we shall see whether he shall bless Thee to Thy face (Job 2:5). When the Lord extended His hand, Job found strength and began to bless, even though it was presumed he would curse—for the divine touch brings healing to the faithful instead of harm. The Lord laid His hand, and the leprosy vanished from the afflicted; He touched the eyes of the blind, imparting light that dispelled their darkness (Matthew 8:2-3; 9:28-30; Mark 1:40-42; Luke 5:12-13; 17:12-14). Always seek strength, and those who stand firm must take heed lest they fall (1 Cor. 10:12). We need to remain steadfast if we wish to receive the Lord's support. The present age is unstable and we easily stumble, so let us earnestly request that the Lord may grant us strength and solace.

This is because the just person is governed by God and understands how to utilize wealth effectively. He does not succumb to a love for money, is not squanderous, and consequently, he does not face necessity, is free from debt, and does not cling to possessions that bring pride or lead to indulgence. In contrast, the wicked are marked by arrogance and extravagance; they lack the wisdom to manage their prosperity and thus continually find themselves in need, often relying on borrowing, unable to maintain their status for an extended period. This truth is further underscored by the following declaration: the strength of the wicked will be shattered, but the Lord sustains the righteous. The power of the sinner quickly fades, for it is anchored in fleshly capabilities, having no true assistance from riches. Conversely, the strength of the righteous remains unwavering, as it is supported by divine power, which bolsters and encourages them as a faithful ally.

However, the sinner, regardless of his wealth, cannot escape eternal ruin; upon death, he will carry nothing away with him, and his fame will not accompany him into the afterlife. The righteous, who place their trust in God rather than in transient riches, shall endure forever.