Psalms 52:6
The righteous also shall see, and fear, and shall laugh at him:
Psalms 52:6
“The righteous also shall see, and fear, and shall laugh at him:” This verse presents the reaction of the righteous to the downfall of the wicked. They see the judgment and respond with a mix of reverent awe (fear) and perhaps a sober, even relieved laughter that truth and justice have prevailed. The laughter is not pride but a recognition of the justice of God and the futility of wicked schemes.
This line captures the paradox of righteous fear and relief: fear of God’s holiness and the awe of divine justice, coupled with joy at the vindication of the righteous. It communicates that outcomes belong to God and that vindication is sure for those who trust in Him. It also cautions against gloating from a place of self-righteousness; the fear here is reverent, not arrogant.
In today’s world, when parties appear to win through deceit, this verse invites believers to trust God’s justice and respond with humility. If you witness injustice, don’t rejoice in others’ suffering or take pleasure in someone’s downfall; instead, express hope and integrity, and let God handle ultimate justice. Let the righteous’s fear deepen your own reverence for God and commitment to truth-telling.
Cross-References: Psalm 2:11; Psalm 37:1–2; Proverbs 24:17–18; Romans 12:19