This psalm was quoted by Paul in Romans 2 to describe God’s judgment. David cried out to God for protection and peace when he was assaulted and betrayed by those (likely in his own court or Saul’s) who slandered him (3-4). These people were two-faced, and they got whatever benefit they could through any means, including extortion and stealing (10). But David did not succumb to their mindset or this culture of royal corruption. He turned to God and cried out to him as his salvation, honor, mighty rock, and refuge (6-7). He poured out his heart to God in prayer and trusted in him (8).

God answered him with two pearls of wisdom: 1) God is mighty, powerful, and faithful in love; and 2) God will reward everyone for what they have done (11-12). God is higher than wicked, powerful people, and he acts in love on behalf of his people. Moreover, God sees everything done on earth and will judge all people according to what they have done. We must believe that God is our ever-present refuge and our righteous judge.
Application: Father, thank you that I can trust in you and rest in the assurance that you reward me according to what I do by faith in Jesus. Forgive me for being deceived by the worldly mindset of getting whatever I can through any means. Help me to rely on your power and love with a gospel mindset.
One Word: Trust in God who will reward everyone according to what they have done