What does "boast of evil" mean, and how can we avoid it today? Setting the Verse in Context “Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man? The loving devotion of God endures all day long.” (Psalm 52:1) David penned Psalm 52 after Doeg the Edomite reported to Saul that David had gone to the house of Ahimelech the priest (1 Samuel 22). Doeg’s proud betrayal cost innocent lives and embodied the sin David condemns: bragging about wicked success while ignoring God’s steadfast love. What “Boast of Evil” Means • Glorying in wrongdoing—celebrating sin as an achievement rather than repenting (Psalm 10:3). • Trusting personal power or schemes instead of God’s character (Psalm 52:7). • Advertising sinful acts to impress others and gain advantage (Proverbs 21:24). • Speaking arrogantly, as though evil will never face judgment (Malachi 3:15). At its core, boasting of evil is open, self-exalting rebellion that tries to place human pride on the throne where only God belongs. Why It Offends the Lord • It denies His holiness (Habakkuk 1:13). • It ignores His enduring love that calls sinners to repent (Psalm 52:1). • It spreads corruption, influencing others to follow the same path (1 Corinthians 15:33). • It invites certain judgment—“God resists the proud” (James 4:6). Recognizing Modern Forms of Boasting in Evil • Posting or sharing immoral exploits on social media for likes. • Celebrating shady business deals that “beat the system.” • Normalizing sexual immorality in entertainment and calling it liberation (Romans 1:32). • Using sarcastic humor to belittle righteousness and exalt rebellion (Ephesians 5:4). • Publicly rejecting biblical standards while flaunting self-defined ethics (Isaiah 5:20). Practical Steps to Avoid Boasting in Evil Today 1. Treasure God’s steadfast love daily. – Meditate on passages like Lamentations 3:22-23; Psalm 136. 2. Cultivate humble speech. – “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:31). 3. Guard inputs that celebrate sin. – Filter entertainment; unfollow accounts that glorify wrongdoing (Psalm 101:3). 4. Practice secret righteousness. – Serve, give, and pray unseen (Matthew 6:1-4). Pride shrivels when deeds stay between you and God. 5. Confess quickly. – The moment pride surfaces, agree with God and receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). 6. Encourage accountability. – Invite trusted believers to confront any bragging about sin (Hebrews 3:13). 7. Celebrate testimonies of grace, not self. – Share how God rescued you rather than how cleverly you navigated life (Psalm 34:2). The Sure Alternative: Boasting in the Lord • Psalm 34:2 – “My soul will boast in the LORD; let the oppressed hear and rejoice.” • Jeremiah 9:23-24 – True boasting centers on understanding and knowing God. When hearts overflow with gratitude for His mercy, evil loses its attraction—and bragging gives way to worship. |
    |