What does Psalms 37:21 mean?
"The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth." - Psalms 37:21

Psalms 37:21 from the King James Version of the Bible reads, "The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth."
This verse is a part of Psalm 37, a psalm written by King David. In this psalm, David addresses the issue of the prosperity of the wicked and the plight of the righteous. He encourages the reader to trust in the Lord and wait patiently for Him to act rather than being envious of the prosperity of the wicked. The psalm emphasizes the importance of righteousness, trust in God, and the ultimate fate of the wicked and the righteous.
In verse 21, David contrasts the actions of the wicked and the righteous. The wicked are depicted as those who borrow and do not repay, while the righteous are characterized by mercy and generosity. This verse touches on the broader themes of justice, righteousness, and the consequences of one's actions.
The first part of the verse, "The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again," speaks to the dishonest and unscrupulous behavior of the wicked. It addresses the issue of unethical financial practices and the lack of integrity in fulfilling one's obligations. This is a condemnation of those who take advantage of others for their own gain, without any intention of fulfilling their commitments. It highlights the lack of responsibility and accountability of the wicked, as well as their disregard for the well-being of others.
On the other hand, the second part of the verse, "but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth," presents the righteous as those who exhibit compassion, generosity, and integrity in their dealings with others. The righteous are contrasted with the wicked by their willingness to forgive debts and help those in need. They demonstrate a spirit of mercy and giving, reflecting God's own character and values. This emphasizes the importance of kindness, compassion, and fairness in interpersonal relationships, as well as the importance of fulfilling one's obligations and being trustworthy.
This verse reflects the broader biblical theme of justice and righteousness. It echoes the teachings of the Old Testament law, which emphasized the principles of honesty, fairness, and compassion in human interactions. The verse also points to the ultimate consequence of the actions of the wicked and the righteous. While the wicked may prosper temporarily, their lack of integrity and disregard for others will ultimately lead to their downfall. In contrast, the righteous, who demonstrate mercy and generosity, are ultimately blessed and favored by God.
Furthermore, this verse also carries a spiritual significance. It points to the nature of God as a merciful and giving God. The righteous are called to emulate God's character by showing mercy and giving to others, reflecting their relationship with God and their obedience to His will. It also serves as a reminder that God's justice will ultimately prevail, and the wicked will be held accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, Psalm 37:21 addresses the contrast between the actions and consequences of the wicked and the righteous. It emphasizes the importance of integrity, compassion, and generosity, reflecting God's own character and values. This verse carries a timeless message about justice, righteousness, and the ultimate fate of the wicked and the righteous. It serves as a call to live a life of integrity, mercy, and giving, in obedience to God's will.
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Psalms 37:21 - "The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth."
"The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth." - Psalms 37:21
Psalms 37:11 - "But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace."
Psalms 37:37 - "Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace."
Psalms 37:7
"Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils," - Psalms 106:37
"For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous." - Psalms 37:17
"The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever." - Psalms 37:18
"And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of increase." - Psalms 107:37
Psalms 136:21 - "And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever:"
"For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb." - Psalms 37:2
Psalms 37:34 - "Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it."
Psalms 37:32 - "The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him."
"For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off." - Psalms 37:22
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way." - Psalms 37:23
Psalms 106:37 - "Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,"
Psalms 37:26 - "He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed."
Psalms 37:17 - "For the arms of the wicked shall be broken: but the LORD upholdeth the righteous."
Psalms 37:27 - "Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore."
Psalms 37:18 - "The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever."
Psalms 37:39 - "But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble."
Psalms 37:29 - "The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever."
"And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday." - Psalms 37:6
Psalms 37:30 - "The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment."
Psalms 37:15 - "Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken."
"Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace." - Psalms 37:37
Psalms 37:19 - "They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied."
Psalms 89:37 - "It shall be established for ever as the moon, and as a faithful witness in heaven. Selah."
Psalms 78:37 - "For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant."
"The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide." - Psalms 37:31