What does Psalm 37:37 mean?
The expression "to mark," as used here, means "to take note of, or to pay special attention to." David's instruction is for the reader or hearer to look at the example of those who are "blameless" and "upright.""Blameless" does not mean sinlessly perfect. No person, other than Jesus, has ever been or ever will be perfect (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus never thought a sinful thought, nor did He commit a sinful act. But every other human being has sinned and falls short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). Rather, to be blameless means to be "above reproach." Paul told Timothy that a church leader "must be blameless" (1 Timothy 3:2 KJV). If only perfectly sinless men were qualified to be overseers, no church would have an overseer.
In a similar way, those who are upright can be contrasted with those who are crooked (Proverbs 17:20). As do other general statements in Psalms and Proverbs, this verse notes that the morally upright person is more likely to see a peaceful future (Proverbs 9:10–11). The word "future" may imply that his descendants, too, will enjoy peace.
Christians enjoy peace with God (Romans 5:1), and by committing their concerns to God in prayer they can also enjoy the peace of God in their hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7).
Psalm 37:32–40 describes the actions of the wicked and the judgment they face at the hands of the Lord. It also relates what the righteous person ought to do and what the Lord will do for him. The wicked have a dreadful future, whereas the future of the righteous is one of exaltation, peace, and deliverance.
In this psalm, David contrasts the way God protects and saves His people, contrasted with the ruin which awaits the wicked. Much of this seems to be based on David's own experiences (Psalm 37:25, 35). As with many other passages in Psalms and Proverbs, this passage encourages godly wisdom. Those who reject God and His ways can expect uncertainty on earth and disaster in eternity.
