God Does Not Forsake His Holy Ones
- Edward D. Andrews
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Psalm 37:28 declares, “For Jehovah loves justice and does not forsake his holy ones; they are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be cut off.” This psalm, attributed to David, addresses the tension believers experience when observing the temporary prosperity of the wicked. David writes as a seasoned man who has witnessed both triumph and adversity. In verse 25 he states, “I have been young and now I am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken.” His testimony reinforces the central promise of verse 28: Jehovah’s covenant loyalty toward His faithful servants is unwavering.
The statement “Jehovah loves justice” grounds the entire promise. Divine love is inseparable from righteousness. Jehovah does not overlook sin nor tolerate moral corruption. Deuteronomy 32:4 affirms, “The Rock! His work is perfect, for all his ways are just.” Justice is intrinsic to His character. Therefore, when the psalm declares that He does not forsake His holy ones, it is not sentimental reassurance but covenant assurance rooted in divine integrity.
The term “holy ones” refers to those set apart for Jehovah through faith and obedience. It does not describe a spiritual elite but all believers who are sanctified through their relationship with Him. Under the New Covenant, sanctification rests on the atoning work of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:10 states, “By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Those who walk in obedience demonstrate that sanctification in daily life.
The promise that they “are preserved forever” must be understood in harmony with biblical teaching regarding life and death. Humans are souls, not possessors of immortal souls (Gen. 2:7). When a person dies, he returns to dust (Eccl. 9:5, 10). Preservation “forever” points to Jehovah’s guarantee of resurrection and eternal life. Jesus affirmed in John 6:40 that everyone who believes in the Son will be raised up at the last day. Eternal life is a gift granted through resurrection, not an innate human possession.
David contrasts the preservation of the righteous with the fate of the wicked: “the descendants of the wicked will be cut off.” This cutting off corresponds with final destruction, symbolized elsewhere by Gehenna, representing irreversible judgment. Malachi 4:1 speaks of a day when the arrogant and evildoers will be like stubble, consumed completely. Divine justice ensures that wickedness does not endure indefinitely. Temporary prosperity does not equate to ultimate security.
Psalm 37 repeatedly commands believers not to fret because of evildoers (Ps. 37:1). Anxiety arises when individuals focus solely on visible circumstances. Faith shifts attention to Jehovah’s character. Proverbs 3:5–6 instructs, “Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.” Trust involves intellectual conviction and practical obedience. It is cultivated through consistent engagement with the Spirit-inspired Scriptures. The Holy Spirit strengthens believers by means of the Word, equipping them to stand firm amid opposition.
David also emphasizes active righteousness. Verse 27 says, “Depart from evil and do good.” Preservation is not passive favoritism but the result of covenant faithfulness. James 1:22 urges believers to be doers of the word, not merely hearers. Spiritual growth requires disciplined obedience. Those who align their lives with Jehovah’s standards experience His sustaining care even when facing hostility from a corrupt world.
The assurance that Jehovah does not forsake His holy ones provides courage in seasons of hardship. Hebrews 13:5 echoes this promise: “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Such certainty dispels fear. Psalm 46:1 proclaims, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Difficulties arise from human imperfection and satanic influence, but they do not indicate abandonment. Divine faithfulness remains constant.
Psalm 37 ultimately points forward to the righteous inheritance of the earth. Verse 29 declares, “The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.” This promise aligns with Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:5, “Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.” In the premillennial reign of Christ, the faithful will enjoy restored conditions under His righteous rule. Jehovah’s preservation extends beyond this present age into the coming kingdom.
Psalm 37:28 calls believers to unwavering trust. Justice belongs to Jehovah. Preservation rests in His hands. Though wickedness appears dominant for a time, divine judgment will prevail. Those who remain faithful, grounded in Scripture and committed to righteous living, can rest in the assurance that Jehovah never abandons His holy ones. His justice guarantees both protection and ultimate vindication.
About the Author
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
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