Bible Commentaries
Psalms 52

Verses 1-9

In this song the attitude of God toward the wicked man who is a tyrant is manifest. The mighty man who boasts himself in mischief is first put in striking contrast to God whose mercy endureth continually. Then follows a description of the mischief in which such a man makes his boast. One is reminded of James' description of the tongue and its fearful power, as the psalmist describes the mischief of evil speech, growing out of an evil nature. The God of mercy destroys the mischiefmaker, and thus demonstrates His mercifulness. God's dealings with such a man will be seen by the righteous, who will understand that the reason for the punishment is that this man was godless.

Suddenly the singer puts himself in contrast with the end of this man because he is in contrast with the attitude of the man. Instead of being rooted up, he is like a tree in the house of God. Instead of trusting in the abundance of riches, he trusts in the mercy of God. The contrast reveals the abiding truth of the unchangeableness of God. All that seems to be different in His dealing with man is due to the difference in man's attitude toward Him.