Today’s Devotional Theme
Get Out Before It's Too Late!
Daily Scripture
Psalm 36:1-2, 12 (HCSB)
"An oracle in my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked person: There is no dread of God before his eyes, for in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to discover and hate his sin...There the evildoers fall; they have been thrown down and cannot rise."
Encouragement
Transgression is just a fancy word for revolt, or rebellion. It is used as another word to say sin. Sin can be either a state of human existence, as in, mankind was born into sin. Or it can be an action and in this case that's what it is... an action. In verse two, the original writing of this Psalm literally says that it is smooth, as in, transgression is a normal thing among humans. So it is safe to assume that the sinner sins out of their very nature, which is sin and no amount of human effort can change that. We are what we are and our doing comes out of the resources we have deep-seated within us. This Psalm describes the end of this path is death unless something within us changes. But the psalmist goes on to say, in verse three, "He has stopped acting wisely," which could mean that some have known better, but choose to sin. Hence the word transgression. When either sinner or saint participates in a lifestyle of sin, they have chosen to rebel and literally go on a revolt against God...and that never ends well.
Apply God’s Word
There is only one thing that can save sinners and the rebellious from destruction, and that is to humble themselves before God, agree that only He is righteous and place their faith in Jesus (see Acts 4:12; 1 Peter 5:5-7). Let's face it, everybody sins. We are human. Even when we become Christians we are still hard-wired by a sin-nature to struggle with our imperfections and God is the only reliable source who is able to truly forgive and help us in our time of struggle and need (see Romans 7; Hebrews 4:14-16 and 1 John 1:9). But this forgiveness and grace is available for those who humble themselves and admit their need of His grace, mercy and forgiveness. As one continues in a rebellious lifestyle against God, they will become calloused to Him and begin to justify their behavior and believe that everything will be alright, when it is not. There is only one application to this devotional reading: Turn to the Lord today! Do not wait! Admit that you need His help, grace, mercy, forgiveness and His ever-loving presence in your life. He calls and pursues you with great fervor! He has not given up on you! There is always hope! Turn to Him today and let Him change your life. He will.
Come into His Presence
Divine giver of spiritual life, I come to You today and humble myself, asking for Your forgiveness. I agree with You, Jesus. I have lived in rebellion and sin. I agree that I struggle with sin, even on a daily basis. Please forgive me and walk with me as my Lord, savior and best friend. I humble myself and turn to You to be my everything. Become life to my spiritual death and teach me how to depend on You for not only forgiveness of sins, but to look to You as my light and salvation. Save me, Lord! In Jesus' name, amen.
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