Chapter Summary

The wicked contrasted with the righteous and the Lord of devout men extolled.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 36

1. What contrasts are laid out in this chapter? How do you consider these contrasts in modern times?
2. How does this chapter depict the correlation between fearing God and walking uprightly?
3. Psalm 36:2. "For he flatters himself in his own eyes that his iniquity cannot be found out and hated." (ESV) What does it mean for someone to flatter themselves? Why is it dangerous to keep sin hidden?
4. Psalm 36:3, "The words of his mouth are trouble and deceit; he has ceased to act wisely and do good." (ESV) What does the word "ceased" suggest in this passage? Does this indicate that there was another path he could have chosen?
5. Psalm 36:4, "He plots trouble while on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he does not reject evil." (ESV) What does this verse teach us about sin being something we choose?
6. Why does David shift from talking about the wicked in heart to the steadfast love of God? What does this shift teach us?
7. How does acknowledging the deep evil in the world bring us to praise God for His mercy and provision? How does it shape our prayer life?
8. David takes time to express his understanding of God’s mercy. How would you describe the Lord’s mercy in your own words?
9. How does God help you when wickedness is near? How does He serve as a refuge like David describes in verse 7?
10. Psalm 36:9, "For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light." (ESV) How would you break down David’s description here? How does the term "fountain" speak to God’s character? How does God’s light allow us to see light?

Key Words/Phrase

Wicked, v. 1 (satisfaction, v. 8).

Characters

God, David.

Strong Verse(s)

7, 8, 9.