Psalm 119:21
You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones, who wander from your commandments. Psalm 119:21
The Psalmist takes a turn on this verse but before we read too much into this shift it is better understood reading the King James Version:
Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. Psalm 119:21 KJV
This verse is pointing to two grave errors, 1.) being proud and 2.) wandering (in err) from God’s commandments.
No matter how righteous a behavior may look on the outside, if the heart motivation of the behavior is rooted in pride (or anything other than the Spirit) the behavior is worthless; the equivalent of “filthy rags.” As this verse points out, the pride of the flesh will turn any behavior into “filthy rags.”
We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment. Isaiah 64:4 ESV
So, the Psalmist is going back to this basic biblical idea, that righteousness is found in humility and following the commandments of God.
So, what do we do when our motives are not 100% pure?
But he gives more grace. Therefore, it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6 ESV
First, we need to remember that God knows us better than we know ourselves. He does oppose us when we are proud, “But he gives more grace.” What do we need when we have false or mixed motives? We need grace and we need “rebuke.” We need to be brought back to the path that leads to life.
So instead of reading this verse as condemnation, it should be read with the lens of a loving and kind Father that only wants good for His children. It should be read considering Matthew 11:29 which is a description of the heart of Jesus.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:29 ESV
If you are struggling to understand the motives as to why you do the things you do, Burke Care would encourage you to reach out to individuals who are safe and are part of a biblical community. Call us, we would love to walk alongside you in humility and grace.
