Psalm 119:51
The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law. Psalm 119:51
Without specifying anyone in my life as "insolent," I am certain that before reaching my mid-thirties, God would have regarded me as such.
"The insolent..." This term in the verse refers to those who are presumptuous, insulting, haughty, contemptuous, or brutal in behavior or language. They are overbearing, domineering, grossly rude or disrespectful, and saucy, like an insolent master or servant.
"...utterly deride me," The Psalmist concurs with God, expressing his complete disdain for the haughty, the prideful, and the rude. These disdainful character traits closely resemble my past self before Jesus found me on the brink of bankruptcy and utterly broken.
"...but I do not turn away from your law." Now, I know where to turn. Amid my rebellion and brokenness, God reached down with immense mercy and grace. Even as a sinner, in my ignorance and unbelief, God demonstrated His love for me (Romans 8:8).
My testimony is that "God is faithful."
…though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
— 1 Timothy 1:13-14 ESV
Not a day passes without being tempted by sinful thoughts and the allure to revert to my former ways of ungodly ignorance and rebellion. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, in his book "Spiritual Depression," suggests, "We need to stop listening to ourselves and start talking to ourselves!" I must daily, sometimes hourly, choose to turn away from these ungodly thoughts. Although I am far from perfect, I continually strive to shed pride and embrace humility.
But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” — James 4:6 ESV
If you are battling pride or find yourself trapped in old patterns of faithlessness, know that God is on your side. Burke Care is eager to learn about your journey. Please take a moment to Burke Care today!
O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. (Psalm 139:1-3). Amen!
Application Questions:
Where do I hide from God? What about my past am I not willing to face and let go of?
How easy is it for me to judge others when I was once that way myself?
What does it look like for me to take off pride and put on humility? Take off judgement and put on compassion?
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