God’s justice will prevail, even when the wicked prosper for a season.
“His ways prosper at all times; Your judgments are on high, out of his sight; As for all his adversaries, he snorts at them.” (Psalm 10:5)
In this verse, the psalmist observes the apparent success of a wicked person, noting that “His ways prosper at all times.” Though it can be confusing to witness someone living unjustly yet thriving, the psalm shows that this prosperity is superficial and fleeting. The arrogant individual has no regard for God’s justice, believing that “Your judgments are on high, out of his sight.” Despite this lack of reverence, Scripture reminds us that the Lord, in His perfect timing, will address all unrighteousness (James 4:6). Throughout the Psalms, such as Psalm 10, believers express frustration at the wicked flourishing while trusting that the Lord remains faithful to defend and vindicate the righteous.
The psalmist also describes that the wicked person “snorts at” or scoffs at his adversaries. This phrase captures both the prideful attitude and the brazen disrespect the wicked display toward anyone who stands in their way. With a heart hardened by arrogance, they respond in mockery when confronted, showing that their seeming invincibility deceives them into believing they can escape divine oversight. However, God’s people can find comfort in knowing our Lord consistently delivers justice in accordance with His own steadfast goodness and mercy (2 Peter 3:9).
The larger context of Psalm 10 entreats us not to be discouraged by the temporary success of the ungodly. Instead, it calls us to remember that, although God’s judgments appear distant to them, He hears the cries of those who suffer at their hands (Psalm 10:17-18). It is a reminder that every proud heart will eventually submit to the Creator and Judge of all (Isaiah 45:23).
Set to dark mode
Psalms 10:5 meaning
“His ways prosper at all times; Your judgments are on high, out of his sight; As for all his adversaries, he snorts at them.” (Psalm 10:5)
In this verse, the psalmist observes the apparent success of a wicked person, noting that “His ways prosper at all times.” Though it can be confusing to witness someone living unjustly yet thriving, the psalm shows that this prosperity is superficial and fleeting. The arrogant individual has no regard for God’s justice, believing that “Your judgments are on high, out of his sight.” Despite this lack of reverence, Scripture reminds us that the Lord, in His perfect timing, will address all unrighteousness (James 4:6). Throughout the Psalms, such as Psalm 10, believers express frustration at the wicked flourishing while trusting that the Lord remains faithful to defend and vindicate the righteous.
The psalmist also describes that the wicked person “snorts at” or scoffs at his adversaries. This phrase captures both the prideful attitude and the brazen disrespect the wicked display toward anyone who stands in their way. With a heart hardened by arrogance, they respond in mockery when confronted, showing that their seeming invincibility deceives them into believing they can escape divine oversight. However, God’s people can find comfort in knowing our Lord consistently delivers justice in accordance with His own steadfast goodness and mercy (2 Peter 3:9).
The larger context of Psalm 10 entreats us not to be discouraged by the temporary success of the ungodly. Instead, it calls us to remember that, although God’s judgments appear distant to them, He hears the cries of those who suffer at their hands (Psalm 10:17-18). It is a reminder that every proud heart will eventually submit to the Creator and Judge of all (Isaiah 45:23).