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Lutheran reading notes

In Psalms chapter 11, the wisdom literature continues to explore prayer, worship, lament, praise, and trust in God. Lutheran interpretation often emphasizes humanity’s limitations and the need to rely on God's grace and promises. The chapter highlights the contrast between human striving and the faithfulness of God.

Theme: Wisdom, prayer, and faithful living Key people: Wise figures Key place: Israel Liturgical use: Wisdom lections
1 [To the chief Musician, {A Psalm} of David.] In the LORD put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee {as} a bird to your mountain?
Psalms 11:1 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
2 For, lo, the wicked bend {their} bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart. {privily: Heb. in darkness}
Psalms 11:2 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
3 If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?
Psalms 11:3 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
4 The LORD {is} in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne {is} in heaven: his eyes behold, his eyelids try, the children of men.
Psalms 11:4 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
5 The LORD trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth.
Psalms 11:5 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
6 Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: {this shall be} the portion of their cup. {an horrible...: or, a burning tempest}
Psalms 11:6 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.
7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.
Psalms 11:7 highlights wisdom, prayer, and faithful living with emphasis on law, gospel, grace, and faith.