Today’s Reading, Psalms 9-16
Focal Scripture: Psalms 11:5 “The Lord examines the righteous, but he hates the wicked and those who love violence.”
Going to the doctor for an examination is never the most fun experience. When you go for the visit you should feel uncomfortable because of the questions and the thoroughness of the exam. The questions are usually very personal and focused. Follow up questions are asked so the doctor can get to the root of the problem. Then tests and possibly procedures are scheduled to fix the problem after the examination. A good examination by a doctor should feel intrusive and detailed. No stone should be left unturned in pursuit of the truth.
In today’s reading we see this truth play out with the Lord. However, he doesn’t examine like a doctor. He examines our hearts, minds, and intents. God examines us to the very core of our being. He does this to determine if we are righteous or evil. He is the only one qualified to perform this task. He is the only one worthy of this responsibility.
So what does this mean for us as believers? It means we must be aware that the Lord of the universe examines us and he does so fairly and passionately. He examines whether our actions and thoughts are righteous or wicked. He gets underneath the surface and peels back the layers of our heart. We can’t hide from his gaze or put on a front.
This is where the rubber meets the road in our lives. God will determine whether we are righteous or wicked. We will give an account for who we are as people. The sobering part of this verse informs us that God loves and hates simultaneously. He loves those who do right and hates those who do wicked.
I already know that some people will have an objection to this truth. You will say “God is a God of love, he doesn’t hate anyone.” The problem with this thinking is that we are putting human limitations on a holy God. As people we are either/or but God is both/and in his character. God can love people completely and hate at the same time. He loves so much he gives a way out but he also hates those who do evil.
The application for us as believers is to submit who we are and how we live to God. To understand that he examines us on a deeper level than anyone ever will. Now that we know this truth how will God examine you and me?
Would God declare us righteous or wicked? The only way we can be declared righteous is by putting our complete trust in Christ and having his righteousness applied to our lives. Any other belief system will determine our guilt and eternal judgement.
How will the Lord who examines declare your life today? Righteous by his son or guilty in your sin. This will determine your eternity and needs to be dealt with today.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Psalms 17-20
