Psalms 37:35
I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree.
Psalms 37:35: "I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree."
The image of the wicked as a “green bay tree” conveys majestic, lush, outward appearance—flourishing prosperity that seems robust and permanent. Yet the verse begins with the speaker’s witness of such power, acknowledging the visible success of the wicked. The contrast with the psalm’s repeated reassurance about the eventual fate of the righteous emphasizes the deceptive nature of worldly prosperity. The green bay tree imagery also alludes to the Hebrew Bible’s use of trees and gardens as symbols of vitality, security, and longevity. This verse rejects the notion that outward success equates to divine favor; it sets up the imminent judgment that the wicked’ strength cannot endure forever. The broader psalm repeatedly counters appearances with divine justice, inviting trust in God’s governance.
Theologically, the verse cautions against equating power with righteousness. It underscores God’s sovereignty over human fortunes and warns that the wicked’ apparent stability is not guaranteed. The “green bay tree” stands as a stark counter-image to the fleeting nature of worldly success; the future is in God’s hands, and what endures is fidelity to God. This aligns with biblical themes of the moral economy of God: what seems flourishing by human standards can be hollow if it excludes justice, mercy, and righteousness. The verse also sets up the larger psalm’s dichotomy between the eventual downfall of the wicked and the preservation of the righteous.
Be cautious of chasing outward markers of success—wealth, status, or influence—without substance of character and integrity. When you see others thriving through perhaps questionable means, resist envy or imitation. Learn from their example the importance of rootedness in God, not mere visibility. Focus on cultivating internal vitality—prayer, wisdom, and generosity—that outlasts public prestige. If you’re tempted to compromise for a “green bay tree” moment, pause and reflect on enduring values and God’s measuring stick for success.
Cross-References: Psalm 1:3; Psalm 73:3-12; Proverbs 23:5; Jeremiah 17:7-8