Wicked People (Psalm 58)

Do we delude ourselves or face the truth, that we are living in a corrupt world, led by wicked people? Let’s look at Psalm 58.

Do society’s leaders truly speak rightly and judge fairly or is wickedness in their hearts and violence in their hands?

For the Chief Musician. To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.” A poem by David. (WEB)

Do you indeed speak righteousness, you silent ones? Do you judge uprightly, you sons of men? No, in heart you work wickedness; You weigh out the violence of your hands in the earth. (Ps 58:1-2 NKJV)

What is the author’s frank assessment of many in our world?

These wicked people are born sinners; even from birth they have lied and gone their own way. They spit venom like deadly snakes; they are like cobras that refuse to listen, ignoring the tunes of the snake charmers, no matter how skillfully they play. (Ps 58:3-5 NLT)

What will God do to these fraudsters who pretend to care about the people, but actually serve only themselves?

Break their teeth, God, in their mouth. Break out the great teeth of the young lions, Yahweh. Let them vanish like water that flows away. When they draw the bow, let their arrows be made blunt. Let them be like a snail which melts and passes away, like the stillborn child, who has not seen the sun. Before your pots can feel the heat of the thorns, he will sweep away the green and the burning alike. (Ps 58:6-9 WEB)

Will the righteous rejoice to see justice done, to see evil people removed from society?

But the righteous will rejoice when they see vengeance done, when they wash their feet in the blood of the wicked. Then it will be said: “Yes, there is a reward for the righteous! Yes, there is a God who judges people on the earth.” (Ps 58:10-11 CEB)

Is it just society’s leaders who are corrupt, or have we all made bad choices? Are there basically only two directions to follow in life? Which do we choose?

You cannot fool God, so don't make a fool of yourself! You will harvest what you plant. If you follow your selfish desires, you will harvest destruction, but if you follow the Spirit, you will harvest eternal life. Don't get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don't give up. (Gal 6:7-9 CEV)

Do we delude ourselves or face the truth, that we are living in a corrupt world, led by wicked people? You decide!