When the Heart Speaks
By Dean Collins
Psalms is the most quoted book in the New Testament, and Jesus quoted Psalms more than any other book of the Old Testament. So, if we want to truly understand and benefit from the psalms, it is wise to consider and look for Jesus as we read through the marvelous collections of songs and prayers we call Psalms.
Today I found it quite helpful to consider this teaching from Jesus as I consider the powerful truth contained in Psalm 36.
“The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.”
Understanding that it is from the heart that our words originate makes the first section of Psalm 36 easy to understand. The very first words of Psalm 36 are, “Transgressions speaks.” That’s an odd opening to a psalm. You might expect “The Lord speaks,” or “God speaks,” but not in this case.
We often quote and even sing parts or all of verses 5-9 of this psalm. Several years ago, the band Third Day recorded these verses in their song, “Your Love O Lord.” But if we only sing and read this part of the truth, we miss important truth that can help us understand that God has, and continues to, reveal that the lies of others will not overcome us.
The first 4 verses of Psalm 36 describe a heart that is fallen and therefore confused, even confidently confused. They have no fear of God, therefore feel no responsibility for the lies they tell. The one who speaks lies does so to serve themselves and the outcomes they want. Their intent is to bring trouble and deception so that they can claim a victory or profit. They do not speak from a place of wisdom. Profit and victory are their motivation and not the pursuit of good.
Contrast that with what we are reminded of in verses 5-9:
God’s love is steadfast, reaching all the way to the heavens where God dwells.
God’s faithfulness fills the earth, even beyond the clouds.
God’s righteousness extends to the heavens and is like the mountains of God.
God’s judgments are as deep as the oceans and are fully just.
The source of the wickedness of one who lies is clear. They operate out of the deception in their hearts. But the one who is rooted in God’s love and is guided by his wisdom has a heart motivated by love. When our hearts are filled with God’s love, then our actions will be visible, and God’s hand of protection will surround us from those filled with self-deception.
David ends this prayer asking God to not let the foot of the arrogant come upon him. David prays that the transgressions of the wicked not be effective in word or deed, and that they will in the end lie fallen, having failed to hurt the beloved of God.
Today, Lord, we ask that you purify our hearts and minds, that our words and deeds would flow from the width and depth of your love and not out of selfish motives. Father, do not allow those who speak lies against your saints have any impact on us. Renew our confidence in you as our righteous God and king and the deliverer of our souls. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your Time with God’s Word
Psalm 36:1-12 ESV
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