What is the meaning of Psalm 15:3? Who has no slander on his tongue The psalmist begins with speech because words reveal the heart and ripple through every relationship. • Slander is the deliberate tearing down of another’s reputation. Psalm 101:5 warns, “Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, I will destroy.” • James 1:26 underlines the test of true devotion: “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless.” • Ephesians 4:29 redirects our mouths toward blessing: “Let no unwholesome talk proceed out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need.” • Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” Living without slander means actively guarding conversations, refusing gossip, and choosing words that heal rather than tarnish. Who does no harm to his neighbor The verse moves from lips to life. True righteousness refuses to injure, exploit, or neglect. • Romans 13:10 states, “Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” • Jesus pictures this love in action in Luke 10:36-37: the Samaritan “showed him mercy… Go and do likewise.” • The sixth through ninth commandments (Exodus 20:13-16) anchor the principle—no murder, adultery, theft, or false witness. Practical outworking: – Pay debts promptly. – Keep promises. – Seek justice for the vulnerable. – Reconcile quickly when offense occurs. Doing “no harm” is more than avoiding obvious evil; it is the continual choice to pursue our neighbor’s highest good. Who casts no scorn on his friend Contempt wounds more quietly than fists yet leaves deep scars. • Proverbs 14:21 warns, “He who despises his neighbor sins.” • Jesus amplifies this in Matthew 5:22: calling a brother “Raca” carries judgment. • Instead, Ephesians 4:32 instructs, “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you.” Scorn includes eye-rolling, sarcasm that belittles, and social media mockery. Honor, empathy, and forgiveness uproot such disdain, mirroring the gracious heart of God toward His friends (John 15:15). summary Psalm 15:3 sketches the kind of person welcome in God’s presence: one whose tongue is clean, whose actions are harmless, and whose attitude is honor-filled. Words, deeds, and motives unite under holy love, proving that the life God requires is the life He empowers by His Spirit. |
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