Read Psalm 36

A Prayer of Protection Against the Wicked

The man who sets himself on a pedestal is sure to be knocked down by God; it may be in this life, it may be after death, but it will happen. David’s words about the “transgression of the wicked” are as true today as they were when they were first penned about three thousand years ago: “There is no fear of God before his eyes” (Psalm 36:1).

When one fails to recognize the awesome might of the one true God of heaven, he can do anything without repercussion in his own mind. In the words of the inspired poet, “For he flatters himself in his own eyes, when he finds out his iniquity and when he hates. The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit; he has ceased to be wise and to do good. He devises wickedness on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he does not abhor evil” (Psalm 36:2-4). Is this not the very picture of the heathen world that Paul painted in the opening chapters of Romans? Is that not the very same picture painted today by newscasters and reporters?

Those who have “ceased to be wise” are the same as those who refuse to “abhor evil,” and then you get in a whole mess of destructive deception and transgression. Sin is dangerous and must be hated. Yes, we must love those who commit sin, but urge them with every ounce of love we have to leave those acts that are abominable in the eyes of the Lord.

And yet, Paul warns those “who are spiritual” that in the attempt to restore an erring brother, we must have “a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1). If we are to be gentle with those who should know better (other Christians who have strayed), should we not be even more gentle with those who have not yet come to a knowledge of the truth?

There are some, though, who will refuse Biblical correction and will continue in the ways of wickedness. Why? David often points to the pride of his enemies as the foundation of their sin. Was that not the case with Saul, who became jealous of David as he gained popularity with the people?

David writes, “Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked drive me away” (Psalm 36:11). We must humbly stand in the truth that was revealed by inspiration, and not allow the sinful, prideful man drive us from our foundation in the gospel.