28:1 The wicked person fled, though no one was pursuing,
but the righteous person can be as confident as a lion.
The wicked person fled, though no one was pursuing(NET) The line portrays the insecurity of a guilty person—he flees because he has a guilty conscience, or because he is suspicious of others around him, or because he fears judgment. (BKC) The guilty consciences of the wicked cause them to run from imagined pursuers (28:1). Knowing they have done wrong, they suspect they are being chased by lawmen
confident (BDB) the righteous are bold as a lion
the righteous person can be as confident as a lion (NET) The righteous, who seek to find favor with God and man, have a clear conscience and do not need to look over their shoulders for avengers or law enforcers. Their position is one of confidence, so that they do not flee. (BKC) God gives them courage; they have no fear of reprisal from wrongdoing.
Summary and reflection: Both the wicked and the righteous have a sense of retribution from the LORD to those who sins. However, the wicked feared judgment but did not change their sins. If they do, they could have the clear conscience and enjoy the courage given by God. Why do I not confess my sins before God?
4 Those who forsake the law praise the wicked,
but those who keep the law contend with them.
9 The one who turns away his ear from hearing the law,
even his prayer is an abomination.
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