Psalms 37:21

21 (36-21) The sinner shall borrow, and not pay again; but the just sheweth mercy and shall give.

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 (36-19) They shall not be confounded in the evil time; and in the days of famine they shall be filled:

20 (36-20) Because the wicked shall perish. And the enemies of the Lord, presently after they shall be honoured and exalted, shall come to nothing and vanish like smoke.

21 (36-21) The sinner shall borrow, and not pay again; but the just sheweth mercy and shall give.

22 (36-22) For such as bless him shall inherit the land: but such as curse him shall perish.

23 (36-23) With the Lord shall the steps of a man be directed, and he shall like well his way.