Psalms
Summary
Psalm 11 is a declaration of trust in the LORD during a time of crisis and threat. When urged to "flee as a bird to your mountain" because the wicked are preparing their arrows, the psalmist responds by anchoring his confidence in God's sovereignty. He declares that the LORD is in His holy temple and His throne is in heaven, observing all people. While God tests both the righteous and the wicked, He will rain down judgement on the violent. The psalm concludes with the reassuring truth that the righteous LORD loves righteousness and "the upright shall behold his face."
In the LORD I put my trust; how can you say to my soul, "Flee as a bird to your mountain"?
For, lo, the wicked bend their bow; they make ready their arrow on the string, that they may secretly shoot at the upright in heart.
If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?
The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD'S throne is in heaven. His eyes behold, his eyelids test the children of men.
The LORD tests the righteous, but the wicked and him who loves violence his soul hates.
Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and a burning tempest; this shall be the portion of their cup.
For the righteous LORD loves righteousness; his countenance beholds the upright.