What is the meaning of Psalm 15:4? Who despises the vile - David says the person who may abide with the LORD “despises the vile.” The idea is not personal hatred, but a settled refusal to admire, applaud, or partner with persistent evildoers (Psalm 101:3–4). - Proverbs 8:13 reminds us, “To fear the LORD is to hate evil.” God’s people share His moral revulsion at what is wicked (Romans 12:9). - This stance keeps us from calling evil good (Isaiah 5:20) or sharing in the deeds of darkness (2 Corinthians 6:14–17). Practical take-aways: • Guard media, friendships, and alliances that celebrate sin. • Speak truth in love, yet keep clear moral boundaries. But honors those who fear the LORD - The same heart that rejects evil gladly honors men and women who revere God. “Love one another deeply as brothers; outdo yourselves in honoring one another” (Romans 12:10). - Honoring God-fearing people looks like: • Valuing their counsel (Proverbs 27:17). • Supporting their ministries (3 John 8). • Choosing close fellowship with them (Hebrews 10:24–25). - This respect is an act of faith. By esteeming those who fear the LORD, we openly side with His kingdom and invite mutual encouragement (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13). Who does not revise a costly oath - “Keeps his oath even when it hurts” (Psalm 15:4, alt. margin). Whether vows to God or promises to people, the righteous stand by their word (Numbers 30:2; Ecclesiastes 5:4–5). - Jesus sharpened this standard: “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37). James echoed it (James 5:12). - Biblical examples: • Joshua and the elders honored their treaty with the Gibeonites though it proved inconvenient (Joshua 9:18–19). • David spared Saul because of his earlier oath before the LORD (1 Samuel 24:6). Living it out: • Fulfill contracts, wedding vows, church commitments—even when circumstances change. • Avoid rash promises; pray first, then pledge what you can perform. summary Psalm 15:4 sketches the moral fiber of a person welcome in God’s presence: he rejects evil without compromise, esteems fellow believers, and keeps his promises at personal cost. Such integrity mirrors God’s own character and marks the life of one who truly “dwells on His holy hill.” |
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