Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong;
Psalm 37:1 NIV
One of the greatest challenges of living by God’s standards today is that truth and righteousness hold little value in the world. We live in a time when integrity is often mocked, and shortcuts appear to bring faster results. Doing things the right way can seem like a disadvantage when others compromise and move ahead.
Following the rules may even slow you down. Waiting your turn, working honestly, and staying true to your faith can feel frustrating when others succeed through shortcuts. Yet, Scripture reminds us not to be troubled by such things: “Do not fret because of those who are evil…”.
The Passion Translation expresses this clearly: “Don’t follow after the wicked ones or be jealous of their wealth. Don’t think for a moment they’re better off than you.” The devil often plants this lie in our hearts—that those who take shortcuts are more successful. When that thought takes root, it leads to envy and temptation. We start to imitate their ways and step outside God’s perfect plan.
Meanwhile, no one can walk against God’s will and still fulfil His divine purpose. The enemy’s goal is to rob us of what God intends to accomplish in and through our lives. He deceives us into thinking that worldly success is lasting. But Scripture reminds us that such success is temporary: “They will soon fade like grass, withering like green plants” (Psalm 37:2).
Even if the wicked seem to live long and wealthy lives, their days are still short compared to eternity. Without Christ, there is no hope beyond this life. Earthly success without eternal security is an empty victory.
As believers, our focus must rest on the life of trust and obedience that God calls us to live. “Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture” (Psalm 37:3). When we delight in the Lord, He shapes our desires to match His will. In His perfect time, He fulfils them. “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4).
When we commit our lives to pursuing God’s purpose, He commits Himself to fulfilling our desires according to His will. Scripture assures us: “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will do this—He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun” (Psalm 37:5–6).
Just as the dawn breaks without an announcement, your righteousness will one day speak for itself. When the time is right, God will cause His light to shine upon you. Even those who once doubted you will see what He has done.
These blessings are not only eternal; they begin here on earth as God works through your life. The wait may seem long, but Psalm 37:7 reminds us: “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.”
Waiting does not mean doing nothing. It means trusting that God is working, even when you cannot see it. Resist the urge to take shortcuts. Let patience, faith, and obedience guide you. Your reward will come in God’s perfect time.
Living It Out
When integrity seems to slow you down, remember that God’s timing is perfect. Keep your heart free from envy and comparison. Delight in the Lord each day, commit your ways to Him, and let His peace steady your heart, doing the right thing the right way. In time, your righteousness will shine like the morning light, proving that waiting on God is never in vain.