Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, "vanity" often refers to the futility and emptiness of human endeavors apart from God. The wicked, in their pursuit of vanity, devise schemes that are ultimately fruitless and self-destructive. This theme is prevalent throughout Scripture, highlighting the moral and spiritual bankruptcy of those who reject divine wisdom and pursue their own selfish desires.The Book of Psalms frequently addresses the vanity of the wicked. Psalm 2:1-2 states, "Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One." Here, the psalmist underscores the futility of the wicked's plans against God's sovereign will. Despite their plotting, their efforts are ultimately in vain because they stand in opposition to the divine purpose. Similarly, Psalm 94:11 declares, "The LORD knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile." This verse emphasizes God's awareness of human intentions and the inherent vanity in the schemes of the wicked. Their thoughts and plans, devoid of righteousness, lead to nothing of lasting value. The Book of Proverbs also addresses the vanity of the wicked's devices. Proverbs 21:30 asserts, "No wisdom, no understanding, and no counsel can prevail against the LORD." This proverb highlights the ultimate futility of any plan that contradicts God's will. The wicked may devise schemes, but without alignment with divine wisdom, their efforts are destined to fail. In the prophetic literature, the theme of vanity is further explored. Isaiah 44:9 states, "All makers of idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Their witnesses fail to see or know, so they will be put to shame." This passage illustrates the emptiness of idolatry, a common pursuit of the wicked, and the vanity of trusting in anything other than the one true God. The New Testament continues this theme, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul. In Romans 1:21-22 , Paul writes, "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools." This passage describes the vanity of the wicked who, despite their knowledge of God, choose to reject Him and pursue their own futile wisdom. Throughout Scripture, the vanity of the wicked's devices serves as a stark reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with God's will. The futility of their plans contrasts sharply with the enduring wisdom and purpose found in a life devoted to God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 36:4He devises mischief on his bed; he sets himself in a way that is not good; he abhors not evil. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Folly of Slander. Part 2. If You Wish Me to Keep Silence, Cease from Accusing Me. Lay Down ... Hail, Jesus; Of the State Wherein Man was Created, and How the Image of God is ... Letter ccxxiii. Against Eustathius of Sebasteia. Christ is All Pope Anterus. The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive. The Knowledge of God Conspicuous in the Creation, and Continual ... Letter xi. --For 339. Coss. Constantius Augustus ii, Constans I ... Resources What does it mean that we have eternity in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11)? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view bodybuilding / weightlifting? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about narcissism? | GotQuestions.org Vanity: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Vanity: A Consequence of the Fall Vanity: All Earthly Things Are Vanity: All should Know and Acknowledge Vanity: Alms Giving Without Charity Is Vanity: Almsgiving Without Love Is Vanity: Childhood and Youth Are Vanity: Evil People: Allure Others Through the Words of Vanity: Evil People: Especially Characterized By Vanity: Evil People: Judicially Given up To Vanity: Evil People: Regard God's Service As Vanity: Evil People: Though Full of, Affect to be Wise Vanity: Faith Without Works Is Vanity: Following Those Given To, Leads to Poverty Vanity: Fools Follow Those Given To Vanity: Man at his Best Estate Is Vanity: Man, at his Best Estate, Is Vanity: Man's own Righteousness Is Vanity: Mere External Religion Is Vanity: Riches Gotten by Falsehood Are Vanity: Saints Hate the Thoughts of Vanity: Saints: Avoid Those Given To Vanity: Saints: Hate the Thoughts of Vanity: Saints: Pray to be Kept From Vanity: The Conduct of the Ungodly Is Vanity: The Religion of Hypocrites Is Vanity: The Thoughts of Man Are Vanity: The Wicked: Allure Others by Words of Vanity: The Wicked: Count God's Service As Vanity: The Wicked: Especially Characterised By Vanity: The Wicked: Judicially Given up To Vanity: The Wicked: Though Full of, Affect to be Wise Vanity: The Wicked: Walk After Vanity: The Worship of the Wicked Is Vanity: They Who Trust In, Rewarded With Vanity: Treasures of Wickedness Are Vanity: Wealth Gotten By, Diminishes Vanity: Worldly Possessions Are Related Terms |
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