No Fear!

“Hear ye! Hear ye!” were the words of the “Town Crier” in many English towns years ago. His job was to stand in public places where people gathered and shout or “cry out” official announcements. When there was an important event he would often ring a bell to get people to gather quickly to listen to what he was sent to say.

David received an important message from the Lord. It was so important that he “cried out” for the people to listen to him. “An oracle is within my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked,” he shouted. An oracle is an utterance – or a message – linked to God or coming from Him. These were serious words and as always reflected the love and concern that God has for people to know Him, come to Him and worship Him.

His message was simple, clear and direct, “Your ears are not open to God, you flatter yourselves so much that you cannot recognize your sins or hate them.”

But he does not stop there. He continues, “The words that come out of your mouths are deceitful, you are no longer wise or do good.” Quite an indictment.

David’s words were true then and are equally true today. He paints a vivid picture of human darkness that includes the mind, heart and will. When we do not fear God’s judgment, our egos become inflated, we flatter ourselves falsely and wicked thoughts come out of our minds that deceive ourselves and others. When we no longer fear God we are in serious trouble. We must fear Him, remain in His Word and rely on His strength.

Prayer: We pray, Father, that Your Spirit will convict us of any sin that would deceive us and destroy us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 36:1 I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before their eyes.