Psalms 104:35
Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.
Psalms 104:35
This verse blends a petition for justice with personal exhortation to praise. “Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more” reflects biblical justice language, where divine judgment is part of the psalmist’s worldview. Yet the psalm ends with a personal call to praise, signaling a balance between lament/justice and worship. In the broader biblical canon, such longing for righteous order is tempered by trust in God’s timing and mercy. The verse acknowledges that God’s holiness requires a response: worship without hollow ritual but in the context of longing for redemption and righteousness in the world.
Key themes include divine justice, righteousness, and the ultimate restoration of creation. The juxtaposition of judgment and praise highlights the tension in the biblical story: God’s holiness necessitates judgment against sin, but His mercy invites repentance and praise. The verse points toward eschatological hope when creation will be renewed and wickedness removed, while inviting current readers to live in ways that align with God’s just, holy reign.
Practically, channel righteous concern into constructive action: advocate for justice, practice mercy, and work toward peace in communities. Cultivate humility in prayer, resisting vengeance while longing for God’s righteous correction. Let the verse motivate ethical living—honesty, fairness, care for the vulnerable—so that your life contributes to a society reflecting God’s justice, even as you worship.
Cross-References: Psalm 37:9-11; Isaiah 11:4-9; Romans 12:17-21; Revelation 21:4; Ezekiel 18:32