USB ~ Psalms 11

Confidence in the Presence of God

1 For the leader. Of David. In the LORD I take refuge; how can you say to me, “Flee like a bird to the mountains! a

2 See how the wicked string their bows, fit their arrows to the string to shoot from the shadows at the upright of heart. b

3 †If foundations are destroyed, what can the just one do?”

4 The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD’s throne is in heaven. c God’s eyes keep careful watch; they test the children of Adam.

5 The LORD tests the righteous and the wicked, hates those who love violence,

6 And rains upon the wicked fiery coals and brimstone, a scorching wind their allotted cup.† d

7 The LORD is just and loves just deeds; the upright will see his face.

Footnotes

†. Psalm 11 A song of trust. Though friends counsel flight to the mountain country (a traditional hideout) to escape trouble (Ps 11:1-3), the innocent psalmist reaffirms confidence in God, who protects those who seek asylum in the Temple (Ps 11:4-7).

†. 11:3 Foundations: usually understood of public order, cf. Ps 82:5.

†. 11:6 Their allotted cup: the cup that God gives people to drink is a common figure for their destiny, cf. Ps 16:5; 75:9; Mt 20:22; 26:39; Rev 14:10.

11:1 Ps 55:7; 91:4.
11:2 Ps 7:13; 37:14; 57:5; 64:4.
11:4 Ps 14:2; 102:20; Hab 2:20; Dt 26:15; Is 66:1; Mt 5:34.
11:6 Ps 120:4; 140:11; Prv 16:27; Ez 38:22; Rev 8:5; 20:10.