Psalm 11

Some teach that this psalm was written when David was running for his life from King Saul. Whether or not that is the case, this psalm was obviously written when David was contemplating running from a difficult situation.

1. In verse 1, people were telling David to run as a bird flees. We have all driven near a huge flock of birds and seen them scatter. That’s what people are telling David to do–just leave. David, though, sees God as his refuge.

2. Verse 2 shows us how difficult things were for David. It was as if everyone was against him. He felt as if people had their bows bent, ready to attack him. David admits that he is innocent by saying that he is “upright in heart.” If it is true, there is nothing wrong with proclaiming innocence.

3. Verse 3 features, to me, a fascinating question: “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” This seems to be the question of one who loves God and is committed to Him, but who is still questioning some things. How modern is that!?!

4. Verse 4: “The Lord is in His holy temple…in heaven.” God is near, but God is also in heaven, controlling things. He is still in control, and the psalmist seems to realize that here.

5. The end of verse 5 is a thought that needs to be spread in our world today: “The one who loves violence [God’s] soul hates.” While many, like radical Muslims, spread a message of violence, God wants peaceful people to come to Him. He is a God of peace.

6. BUT, that is not to say that God does not punish. Verse 6 is reminiscent of the story of Sodom, Gomorrah and the other cities of the plain. While it was a gruesome story, the cities had opportunity after opportunity to turn back to God, but refused. It is the same today. God gives us multiple chances–through the teaching of the Gospel–to come to Him. If we do not, however, we will be punished.

7. Verse 7 is quite interesting and beautiful because it can be translated, “For the Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; the upright will behold His face” or “He will behold the face of the upright.” Either way, those who are faithful will get to see God.