You already know that Jesus quoted scripture prodigiously, but did you know one of his most culturally significant sayings, one which has entered the general English lexicon, is a quote from David? “The meek shall inherit the earth,” comes from Psalm 37.

Do not fret because of those who are evil
    or be envious of those who do wrong;
for like the grass they will soon wither,
    like green plants they will soon die away.

Trust in the Lord and do good;
    dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
Take delight in the Lord,
    and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord;
    trust in him and he will do this:
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
    your vindication like the noonday sun.

PSalm 37:1-6

This Psalm is an encouragement for those who seek righteousness not to give up. David knew all to well that being a “good person” is too hard on your own. We all need the power of a supreme being to pull it off! Blessedly, believers have that in God. If we seek him, doing good and gaining good rewards will come easily. We will no longer be envious of the wages of wickedness because we will have the rewards of righteousness.

Ethan Kirl