Psalm 52

  1. Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually.
  2. The tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.
  3. Thou lovest evil more than good; and lying rather than to speak righteousness. Selah.
  4. Thou lovest all devouring words, O thou deceitful tongue.
  5. God shall likewise destroy thee for ever, he shall take thee away, and pluck thee out of thy dwelling place, and root thee out of the land of the living. Selah.
  6. The righteous also shall see, and fear, and shall laugh at him:
  7. Lo, this is the man that made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, and strengthened himself in his wickedness.
  8. But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever.
  9. I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints.


Psalm 52 is a reflection on the contrast between the wicked and the righteous, emphasizing the enduring goodness of God and the ultimate fate of those who trust in their own strength and engage in deceitful practices.

The psalmist condemns the boasting of the wicked, who take pride in their mischief and deceitful words. These individuals prioritize evil over good and falsehood over righteousness, disregarding the enduring goodness of God.

Despite the apparent success of the wicked, the psalmist declares their impending destruction by God. Their trust in wealth and wickedness will ultimately lead to their downfall, as God uproots them from their dwelling place and condemns them to destruction.

In contrast, the psalmist identifies themselves as one who trusts in the mercy of God and finds refuge in His house. They express confidence in God’s enduring goodness and commit to praising Him forever.

Psalm 52 serves as a reminder of the consequences of pride, deceit, and misplaced trust, while also affirming the security and blessing found in trusting in God’s mercy and goodness. It encourages believers to rely on God rather than their own strength and to praise Him for His faithfulness and righteousness.