OLD TESTAMENT

THE psalms are not gathered in any thematic order, but psalm 14 coming hard on the heels of Psalm 8, helps to keep the biblical view of human nature in balance. People may be special, but they are also sinful.

The essence of sin in Scripture is turning one’s back on God, rather than the specific acts which may then result. Hence someone living a “good life” can still be regarded as sinful. That helps to explain why this psalm declares that no one does good (v 3); as Jesus pointed out to the rich young man, “no one is good – except God alone” (Mark 10:18).

We can never match up to God’s standards of holiness and perfection. And the overtly sinful, the people who do take advantage of others, cause distress; their victims can take some comfort in knowing that the LORD is ready to support them (v 6).

The psalm concludes with a common theme that runs through all the psalms, that of God’s justice. The authors often recognise that all is not well with the world, but they never lose their faith that God is a righteous Judge. So here, David prays for justice, as can anyone who, like him, observes the inequity of life with alarm.

God has honoured mankind

THE aforementioned psalm 8 deserves elaborating upon.

Generally speaking, human beings have too small a picture of God and too big a picture of themselves. This psalm corrects the balance in a context of wonder and praise.

The greatness of God is a common theme in the book of Psalms which often cites the acts of God as evidence for it. Just occasionally, as here, an author looks around at the incredible size and magnificence of the physical creation and praises the Creator who must be even more wonderful.

Compared to the majesty of God, humankind is a miracle. So small and frail, yet given such status and responsibility. This is the true perspective of worship. It does not belittle human ability and life; rather it celebrates it in the context of a great God who has declared himself to love all creatures great and small.

Such an attitude prevents self-centredness, but also avoids any sense of worthlessness and lack of human purpose. It is sorely needed today as on the one hand people exert themselves over others and on the other despair of finding meaning and significance for their lives. God has honoured mankind and inspiration for anything can be found through Him.