Monday, April 6, 2009

Despising God


“Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight…Now therefore the sword shall not depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me…” (2 Samuel 12:9-10)


         If you read only this excerpt from the cited verses, one might think these words were spoken to one of God’s worst enemies; but, alas, they were directed to the man said to be after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). If that be the case, it should be good reason for you and I to check our own hearts.  


         It is evident that in God’s estimation, sin and disobedience to His commands constitute not only an indication of despising them, but also Him. (God back and read the verses.) And when you consider the word “despise” means to view something or someone “slightingly, or with contempt, disregarding them in word or action,” it appears to be exactly the right word. This sad episode (horrendous though it was) in David’s overall good life, and his heartfelt repentance afterwards, serve to indicate his real love for God. No doubt, to hear that God considered his sin to be a direct slap in His face, broke the heart of David.


         I wonder if you and I should not look upon our own disobedience in the same way? Are we to assume that adultery is the only sin that occasions this conclusion? I have often said, I think the most effective deterrent to sin in the life of a believer is not fear, but love. Not love for family, friends, or anyone else who may be involved, but love for God. After all, He is the ultimate “injured party.” Any offense we commit against another person pales next to the insult it pays to God. The difference between a misdemeanor and a felony.


         If we truly care for someone, it is heartbreaking to think that individual may not feel that we actually do. It’s not as much a matter of proving our love as disproving our lack of love. Think about that the next time you are tempted to sin against a direct command of God. Would it make any difference to you if it were an indication to Him that you despised Him? 



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