“Salvation is far from the wicked,
for they do not seek your statutes.” Psalm 119.155
This verse, with its stern and abrupt language, highlights a truth that every believer must keep in mind. The world is not mostly good or a little misguided. The world is not close to God and in need of a nudge in the right direction. They are far from God. Those who have not come to God by faith are lost in their wickedness, fully enveloped in sin—whatever niceties they may present outwardly.
This verse also explains the root of that wickedness: the rejection of God’s revelation. Because they have turned away from God’s Word, because they do not seek his statutes, they are lost in sin, far from God.
The good news is that in knowing the right diagnosis, we also know the remedy. God’s Word reveals the gospel. That is the power of God unto salvation. Let us not be distracted by telling the lost about God’s wonderful plan for their life or how he wants to improve their circumstances. Instead, let us proclaim his Word. Bring the Word of God to bear on them, showing their sin and need of a Savior. Let us proclaim the gospel truth, from Scripture, that Christ alone saves.
When is the last time you considered the true state of the unbelievers you know? How have you prepared yourself to speak biblical truth to them?
Gracious God, we praise you for revealing yourself to us and teaching us hard truths. Give us a greater zeal, dear Lord, to proclaim the truth of your Word to the lost. Give us heart of compassion and grace, that we might speak the truth with boldness. Draw men unto yourself. Amen.