Scripture
All have turned away, all have become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.
~Psalm 14:3, NIV
Quote
Fools cannot bear anyone being over them; so they ignore God or act as if He does not exist.
~Timothy Keller
We know where Paul got a lot of his inspiration for Romans; he got it from David and the Psalms. The bible and especially the Psalms are a God-thing. I marvel at David’s theology. Paul doesn’t try to improve or refine what David said, he simply quotes him. All, and this means no exceptions, have sinned. All have corrupt motives. No one does good because there is no one good. There is some rebellion in all humans but I think there is more in some than others. First of all, we do not like restraint, laws or instructions. We have a desire to do our own thing. There are three Hebrew words for sin: {1} The first is translated ‘sin’ and it means an offence, {2} the second is ‘Iniquity’ which means twisted or perverted and the third is {3} ‘Transgression’ which is a willful breach of the law. The first two may arise from ignorance or indifference but the third is an act of rebellion. When we live in a spirit of rebellion, we live as if God does not exist; like He is not present. Every sin is a form of practical atheism.
Jesus taught in the Sermon on the mount that it is blessed to be meek. Meekness is not weakness, it is strength under control. The draft horse is a picture of meekness. The horse has incredible strength but it’s energy and power are under the direction of it’s master. The animal is domesticated; it allows the farmer to lay hands on, harness, and direct. The meek and gentle beast responds to the bit, the rein and the command of it’s trainer or owner. A wild horse is of no use. A man can’t get near it, let alone lay his hand upon it. Some folks are like the wild horse. The KJV has another word for it found in Jeremiah 2:24 but its the same thing: a person out of control. A person who is living without purpose; just doing as they please and usually ending up in some form of destructive behavior. Let the LORD lay His hand upon you: submit to the bridle, the rein and the harness. Surrender your will to Him and become useful in His kingdom.
I don’t know about you but I prefer 62 and rain to 32 and wind. But since I have no control, I will do my best to enjoy it. It does seem like the appropriate time to quote Dean Martin…“Baby, it is cold outside.” God bless you, have a great week and stay warm.