But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken.
The faithful see the world in chaos: the godless prosper while the pious suffer, which tempts us to think God either absent or indifferent. This psalm strengthens us against that very temptation by declaring their felicity cursed and fleeting, while God's care for His own never fails, even in calamity.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 37:1-40
Here is the portrait of a proud oppressor armed to the teeth.
Commenting on Psalm 37:12
Their sword shall enter into their own heart. Like Haman they shall be hanged upon the gallows built by themselves for Mordecai. Hundreds of times has this been the case. Saul, who sought to slay David, fell on his own sword; and the bow, his favourite weapon, the use of which he taught the children of Israel, was not able to deliver him on Gilboa.