A Picture of the Wicked
Have you ever wondered what motivates the ungodly? David says in Psalm 36 that God has revealed the motivations of their hearts (36:1). The “ungodly” are all those that do not fear God at all.
David says they have no “fear” of God (36:1) This isn’t the usual word for fear that has to do with reverential awe. This word means “dread” or “terror.” They conduct their lives the way that they want to, without trembling at His imminent judgment. Their hearts are evil and prompt them to evil (1). They deceive themselves and rationalise their behaviour so as to do what they desire (36:2). They become insensitive to sin because of their self-justification; and refuse to see their sin as God sees it, lest they hate it as He does (36:2). The ungodly betray their true character with their words and hurt others with their evil and lies (36:3). They become calloused to sin, and searing their consciences they ceased to do what is right (36:3). The wicked love their sinful pleasures and do not care if it hurts themselves or others (36:4). Ultimately, they are on a path of life that is not good, and will bring trouble and heartache upon themselves and those around them (36:4).
This accurate picture of the ungodly shows that there is no good in mankind. Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” But know that our God is a saving God (36:7-8). He saves humans in spite of their sinful condition. Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of woks, so that no one may boast.”