Refrain from anger
This phrase calls for self-control and patience, virtues highly valued throughout Scripture. Anger, when unchecked, can lead to sin and destructive behavior. In biblical context, anger is often associated with foolishness (Proverbs 14:29) and can hinder one's relationship with God (James 1:20). The call to refrain from anger echoes the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, where self-restraint is a mark of the wise. Jesus exemplified this restraint, even when provoked, demonstrating a perfect model of righteous anger without sin (Mark 3:5).

and abandon wrath;
Wrath is a more intense form of anger, often leading to vengeance and retribution. The Bible consistently warns against wrath, urging believers to leave vengeance to God (Romans 12:19). In the cultural context of ancient Israel, personal vendettas could disrupt community harmony and lead to cycles of violence. By abandoning wrath, individuals align themselves with God's justice rather than taking matters into their own hands. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who instructed His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44).

do not fret—
Fretting involves worry and anxiety, often stemming from a lack of trust in God's sovereignty. The historical context of this psalm suggests that the righteous were tempted to worry about the prosperity of the wicked. The psalmist encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate justice and timing. This theme is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are urged to cast their anxieties on God (1 Peter 5:7) and to seek His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33-34).

it can only bring harm.
The harm referenced here can be both personal and communal. On a personal level, anger and worry can lead to physical and emotional stress, damaging one's health and spiritual well-being. On a communal level, these emotions can lead to conflict and division within the community of believers. The Bible consistently teaches that peace and unity are fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and that believers are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). By refraining from anger and fretting, individuals contribute to a harmonious and God-honoring community.

1. David
The author of Psalm 37, King David, is addressing the righteous, offering wisdom and guidance on how to live a life pleasing to God amidst the challenges posed by the wicked.

2. The Righteous
The audience of the Psalm, those who seek to live according to God's will and are encouraged to trust in the Lord rather than succumb to anger or envy.

3. The Wicked
Those who oppose God's ways and often seem to prosper, causing frustration and anger among the righteous.

4. Israel
The nation to whom David originally wrote, facing the constant challenge of remaining faithful to God amidst surrounding pagan influences.

5. The Lord
The central figure in the Psalm, who is portrayed as just, faithful, and the ultimate source of security and justice for the righteous.The Destructive Nature of Anger
Anger, when unchecked, can lead to sin and harm both ourselves and others. It is crucial to recognize the destructive potential of anger and choose to let it go.

Trust in God's Justice
Instead of fretting over the apparent success of the wicked, trust in God's ultimate justice. He sees all and will act in His perfect timing.

Cultivating Patience and Peace
Develop patience and a peaceful spirit by focusing on God's promises and faithfulness. This helps to counteract the natural inclination towards anger and frustration.

Practical Steps to Refrain from Anger
Engage in prayer and meditation on Scripture to calm the mind and spirit. Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to transform anger into understanding and compassion.

Community and Accountability
Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide support and accountability in moments of anger, helping to redirect focus towards God's peace.Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 37

What does the Bible teach about managing anger?

What does 'gnashing of teeth' mean?

What does the Bible teach about managing anger?

What does Proverbs 29:11 mean?(8) In any wise to do evil . . .--Better, only to do evil, i.e., only evil can come of it. Comp. Proverbs 14:23, "tendeth only to penury."

Verse 8. - Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; i.e. such anger and such wrath as the prosperity of the wicked calls forth. Fret not thyself in any wise to do evil; rather, fret not thyself, only to do evil. No result could be looked for from the sort of "fretting" spoken of, but an evil one. If men will dwell unduly on the fact of the prosperity of the wicked, and brood upon it in their hearts, they will be apt, in the first instance, to envy the wicked, which is at once "to do evil;" and from this they will be naturally tempted to go on to an imitation of their wicked practices, which is to assimilate themselves altogether to the enemies of God, and to be guilty of practical apostasy (comp. Psalm 73:2, "But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well-nigh supped. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked").

Parallel Commentaries ...


Refrain
הֶ֣רֶף (he·rep̄)
Verb - Hifil - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 7503: Sink, relax

from anger
מֵ֭אַף (mê·’ap̄)
Preposition | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 639: The nose, nostril, the face, a person, ire

and abandon
וַעֲזֹ֣ב (wa·‘ă·zōḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular
Strong's 5800: To loosen, relinquish, permit

wrath;
חֵמָ֑ה (ḥê·māh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2534: Heat, anger, poison

do not
אַל־ (’al-)
Adverb
Strong's 408: Not

fret—
תִּ֝תְחַ֗ר (tiṯ·ḥar)
Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect Jussive - second person masculine singular
Strong's 2734: To glow, grow warm, to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy

it can only
אַךְ־ (’aḵ-)
Adverb
Strong's 389: A particle of affirmation, surely

bring harm.
לְהָרֵֽעַ׃ (lə·hā·rê·a‘)
Preposition-l | Verb - Hifil - Infinitive construct
Strong's 7489: To spoil, to make, good for, nothing, bad


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OT Poetry: Psalm 37:8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath (Psalm Ps Psa.)