Study 17

Text: Psalm 5

A STRONG AWARENESS

It is important that we have a strong awareness of how God views the wicked. This acute awareness will in turn strengthen us in our struggle against the problem of evil in the world.

"For You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness,
Nor shall evil dwell with You.
The boastful shall not stand in Your sight;
You hate all workers of iniquity,
You shall destroy those who speak falsehood;
The Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man."
Psalm 5:4-6

A QUICK LISTING OF "THE WICKED"

The psalmist makes a quick list of people that may be classified under the category of "The wicked."

1. The Boastful
This is a reference to those who indulge in wickedness and boast about their wicked exploits to their friends and family.

2. The Workers of Iniquity
This is a general term describing those who engage in sin without any qualms.

3. Those who speak falsehood
The wicked think nothing of lying. They engage in lies as if it is a very normal thing to do.

4. The bloodthirsty
There are those who are inclined to committing violent acts. Some even take pleasure in bringing hurt to people!

5. The deceitful
There are those who will deceive. These may be confidence tricksters. But even if they are not professional con-men, they are people who will think nothing of deceiving others.

GOD'S ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE WICKED

The Lord's attitude towards the wicked are also given a quick listing. Three things may be highlighted:-

1. The Lord hates all workers of iniquity

2.The Lord will destroy those who engage in falsehood

3. The Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful men!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~

Released 4th April 2004, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore