Psalm 11

“If the foundations are destroyed” (vs. 1-3)—“In the LORD I put my trust; How can you say to my soul, ‘Flee as a bird to your mountain’?” (v. 1). David appears to be under some duress again, and is being advised to run. But he trusts the Lord and isn’t going to do it. He doesn’t deny that the wicked are abroad, effective, and ready to attack (v. 2). And if these people destroy what society is built upon, the “foundations” of truth, equity, and righteousness, then “what can the righteous do?” (v. 3). Indeed, one of the great lessons of history is that every society and culture is established upon certain principles, whatever they might be. For example, the United States was established upon Judeo-Christian concepts; that foundation is being eroded significantly today and the wise can see the fruits of it—a country teetering on the brink of disaster. If the foundation of any building it destroyed, what will happen to it? The whole thing will collapse. So, “what can the righteous do?” They can do what David did.

“The Lord is in His holy temple” (vs. 4-7)—The righteous can remember the sovereignty and omnipotence of God. He is in His temple, He is on His throne (v. 4). Much of what happened to David—and to all of God’s people—is frequently a test from Jehovah: “The Lord tests the righteous” (v. 5). How will we measure up when things get a little tight? “The Lord is righteous. He loves righteousness, His countenance beholds the upright” (v. 7). “But the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates. Upon the wicked He will rain coals; Fire and brimstone and a burning wind shall be the portion of their cup” (vs. 5-6). It isn’t always easy, during the trial, to remain faithful. But always remember the rewards, that God is indeed on the side of the righteous, and the wicked will eventually be brought down. “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9).