I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before their eyes.
Psalm 36:1 NIV
Psalm 36 opens with a sobering message from David: “I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked.” He begins by painting a vivid picture of those who live without reverence for God. David observes that “there is no fear of God before their eyes.” The wicked flatter themselves so much that they no longer recognise their wrongdoing, nor do they feel any hatred towards their sin.
Instead of humbling themselves before God, they continue in their ways, convinced that their choices are right. Deep down, they know that what they are doing is wrong; however, they suppress that inner conviction which could lead them to repentance. Consequently, their hearts grow darker because they delight in the temporary pleasures that sin offers. As David notes, their words are deceitful, their actions corrupt, and even in their moments of rest, they devise evil schemes. Indeed, their minds never pause to seek good; their lives are completely centred on sin.
Yet, in a beautiful turn, David shifts his focus from the depravity of man to the majesty of God. He lifts his gaze to the heavens and begins to speak of God’s boundless love and unchanging faithfulness. “Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep.” (Psalm 36:5–6)
Here, David reminds us of who God truly is—loving, faithful, righteous, and just. Moreover, He is the sustainer of all creation, preserving both people and animals alike. Then, in awe, David declares, “How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!” (Psalm 36:7). These words echo the heart of every believer who has tasted the goodness of God and experienced His steadfast mercy.
Furthermore, in verse 9, David writes, “For with you is the fountain of life; in your light, we see light.” This statement holds profound truth. Life originates in God, and only in His light can we truly see and understand the world as it is. Apart from Him, all is darkness. But when we draw near to Him, His light illuminates our path, giving clarity, purpose, and hope.
The wicked, however, remain in sin not because God wants them to, but because He is merciful and gives them time to repent. His patience is not approval; rather, it is an expression of grace. Through His kindness, God offers everyone the chance to turn from darkness and receive the light of salvation. Those who respond to this call will encounter God’s transforming power—a light that brings renewal, forgiveness, and eternal life.
Nevertheless, the psalm closes with a solemn warning: “See how the evildoers lie fallen—thrown down, not able to rise!” (Psalm 36:12). Those who persist in sin and reject God’s mercy will ultimately fall. Their downfall will be final, and there will be no recovery.
For the believer, this truth is both a warning and a call to steadfastness. Therefore, we must remain rooted in God’s light, holding firmly to His truth and walking in righteousness. In addition, this revelation compels us to share the light of Christ with others. The only hope for sinners (the wicked) is to come to Him—to receive the life that shines in the darkness, the life that the darkness cannot overcome (John 1:5).
Living It Out
Psalm 36 challenges us to examine our hearts. Do we walk daily in the light of God’s truth, or are there areas where sin has subtly taken root? God’s light not only reveals our flaws but also offers the power to overcome them.
Therefore, as we live in His light, may we become bearers of that same light to others—pointing them towards the fountain of life found only in Christ. Let us choose to live each day reflecting His love, His righteousness, and His faithfulness.