Fearless

Psalm 36:1 (KJV) [[To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David the servant of the LORD.]] The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

The Septuagint personalizes this in an interesting way.

Psalms 36:1 (BES) (35:1) For the end, by David the servant of the Lord.(35:2) The transgressor, that he may sin, says within himself, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

Recently at church, we had a discussion of why there is so much evil in the world.  We talked about the irrational ideas that are accepted as normal.  One of the reasons given was a lack of fear of God.  This verse reinforces that.

People deliberately reject God, and refuse to fear him.  That is one of the great sources of ignorance, confusion, and nonsense.

So?  Fear.  Be filled with awe.  Set your priorities based on what the universe is really like.

Parallels

(Psa 36:4 KJV)  He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil.

Here is a thought that runs parallel to what Proverbs says, some people cannot even sleep well unless they are planning and implementing evil.  It is hard to tell how many people are this way.  I have no idea if it is an attitude that develops or it was their default.  It is still a reality.

Many of us are really good at going the extra mile and giving another chance.  I tend to have none of the gift of mercy so I understand this verse better than some.  I need to work on my sensitivity.  You may need to work on your discernment.

So?  Be alert.  Be aware.  As we demonstrate patience and kindness don’t fall asleep.