Old Testament
Psalms 68:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As smoke is driven away, so drive them away. As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish in the presence of God.
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As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.
What Psalms 68:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse uses vivid imagery to illustrate the fate of the wicked in the presence of God. Just as smoke dissipates quickly when the wind blows, and wax melts away when exposed to heat, the wicked will vanish when confronted by God's holiness and power. The psalmist is calling for God to act against those who oppose Him, emphasizing that evil cannot stand in His presence. This reflects a broader theme in the Psalms where the triumph of righteousness over wickedness is celebrated. The comparison to smoke and wax highlights the temporary nature of evil compared to the eternal nature of God. The verse serves as a reminder of God's authority and the ultimate justice that will prevail over wrongdoing.
How to apply Psalms 68:2 to your life
In our lives, we can trust that God will deal with injustice and wickedness. When we face opposition or wrongdoing, we can pray for God's intervention, knowing that He has the power to remove evil from our lives. This encourages us to remain steadfast in righteousness.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
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Keep studying Psalms 68:2
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At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 68:2 mean about the wicked?
Psalms 68:2 uses the imagery of smoke and wax to illustrate how the wicked will be removed from God's presence. Just as smoke quickly dissipates and wax melts away when exposed to heat, the verse suggests that evil cannot endure when confronted by God's holiness. This emphasizes the idea that God's power will ultimately triumph over wickedness.
How can I apply Psalms 68:2 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 68:2 by trusting in God's ability to handle injustice and wickedness in your life. When facing opposition or wrongdoing, remember to pray for God's intervention. This verse encourages you to remain steadfast in righteousness, knowing that God will ultimately bring justice and remove evil from your circumstances.
What themes are present in Psalms 68:2?
Psalms 68:2 encompasses several key themes, including God's power, justice, and the nature of wickedness. It highlights the victory of righteousness over evil and underscores the significance of God's divine presence. The imagery of smoke and wax serves to remind us of the temporary nature of evil compared to God's eternal authority.
Why does the psalmist call for God to drive away the wicked?
The psalmist calls for God to drive away the wicked as a plea for divine justice. This reflects a desire for God to act against those who oppose Him and perpetuate evil. The call for intervention emphasizes the belief that only God has the power to remove wickedness and restore righteousness, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty.
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