What is the meaning of Psalm 34:14? Turn away from evil Psalm 34:14 begins, “Turn away from evil…”. David is calling for an intentional break with everything God calls wicked, not a casual distancing. The command is as binding today as when first penned, because every word of Scripture is true and enduring. • God repeatedly urges His people to shun sin: Job 28:28; Proverbs 3:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:22. • Turning away involves decisive choices—changing what we watch, where we go, whom we imitate (James 4:7; 2 Timothy 2:22). • It is never a suggestion; it is the evidence that we fear the Lord (Proverbs 8:13). and do good Stopping evil isn’t enough; we must “do good.” God’s children are saved for active righteousness (Ephesians 2:10). • Doing good is continual (Galatians 6:9-10), visible (Matthew 5:16), and practical (Titus 3:14). • It silences critics (1 Peter 2:15) and proves love sincere (Romans 12:9). • The Spirit enables these works, so the focus stays on God’s grace, not self-effort. seek peace “Seek peace” shifts the spotlight from private piety to relational harmony. • Peace with others pictures our peace with God (Romans 5:1), so Christ calls us peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). • We are to make peace a priority—initiating reconciliation whenever possible (Romans 12:18). • Inner peace flows from trusting God (Isaiah 26:3; Philippians 4:7) and equips us to extend peace outward. and pursue it Peace isn’t passive; we “pursue it.” The verb implies a vigorous chase. • Hebrews 12:14 commands believers to “Pursue peace with everyone,” underscoring urgency. • We pursue peace by guarding our words, forgiving quickly, and promoting unity (Ephesians 4:3; Colossians 3:15). • Peter quotes this very verse (1 Peter 3:11), showing that New-Testament believers are to chase the same goal. summary Psalm 34:14 calls for a fourfold response: renounce evil, practice good, prioritize peace, and chase it relentlessly. In doing so we reflect the character of our Lord, reveal the power of the gospel, and enjoy the blessing God promises to all who take His Word at face value. |
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