Psalm 52
1. The superscript tells us that this psalm was written, “When Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul and said to him, ‘David has come to the house of Ahimelech’.” The story is in First Samuel 21 and 22. This brief psalm describes the final triumph of good and also discusses the fact that God is ultimately in control.
2. Verse 1 gives a great contrast between the “mighty man” (Doeg) and God. The boasting of this man will last, but only for a short while; while God’s powers, including his lovingkindness, are forever.
3. Verse 2 gives a great description of the make-up of an evil man. They are able to not only devise evil things, but their tongue is “like a sharp razor.” The evil one simply cuts people off with his schemes.
4. There are two similar things in verse 3. First is a strong statement that many do not want to admit. Even some who are sinful don’t want to admit that they love evil more than good. When we constantly sin, though, that is just the truth! The other part of verse 3 uses similar language, but it speaks of how the evil person talks. While they may not admit it, they actually enjoy telling lies more than telling the truth. It is sad to say, but many who claim to follow God outwardly have this characteristic.
5. Verse 5 begins to give the contrast. After talking about how powerful the evil person is–and he/she does have power–David begins to tell how truly powerful God is. “God will break you down forever.” The rest of verse 5 talks about more specific things, but the emphasis of the verse is on the vast difference between man’s power and God’s power.
6. Verses 6 and 7 show us that those who are righteous will, ultimately, be joyful. We do not rejoice because others suffer, but we rejoice knowing that the righteous will conquer. We want all men to be on the side of right, so every person may rejoice in this way!
7. “But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God” (verse 8). David is saying that the one who follows God–and has this joy–is productive and secure, as is an olive tree. He also gives the way to do that: we trust in God and his love for all our days.
