Psalms 37:21

21 The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is gracious and giving.

Psalms 37:21 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 37:21

The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again
While the wicked live, they are scandalous; they live by borrowing, which was always reckoned mean; see ( Deuteronomy 28:12 Deuteronomy 28:44 ) ( Proverbs 22:7 ) ; and what is worse, as they borrow, they do not design to repay; they take no care nor thought about that, but live upon what they borrow: for this either expresses their incapacity that they cannot pay; or the evil disposition of their mind, which rather seems to be the sense, that they will not pay;

but the righteous showeth mercy, and giveth;
which not only argues capacity and ability, but a kind, merciful, and tender spirit to persons in distress, and is expressive of a generous action.

Psalms 37:21 In-Context

19 They will not be disgraced in times of adversity; they will be satisfied in days of hunger.

20 But the wicked will perish; the Lord's enemies, like the glory of the pastures, will fade away- they will fade away like smoke.

21 The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is gracious and giving.

22 Those who are blessed by Him will inherit the land, but those cursed by Him will be destroyed.

23 A man's steps are established by the Lord, and He takes pleasure in his way.