Psalms 37:21

21 The wicked borrows and does not pay back, But the righteous 1is gracious and gives.

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 ashamed in the time of evil, And in the days of famine they will have abundance.
20 But the wicked will perish; And the enemies of the LORD will be like the glory of the pastures, They vanish -like smoke they vanish away.
21 The wicked borrows and does not pay back, But the righteous is gracious and gives.
22 For those blessed by Him will inherit the land, But those cursed by Him will be cut off.
23 The steps of a man are established by the LORD , And He delights in his way.

Cross References 1

  • 1. Psalms 112:5, 9
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