The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. (Psalm 10:4)
There is an argument to be made that, when it seems God is standing afar off, the wicked are seduced into thinking that their actions will prosper and bear no ill consequences for them. Excessive pride grips their heart which eventually begins to show in their face, or as David says, countenance. Actually the Hebrew word translated “countenance” is literally “nose.” Think about it: the nose is the most prominent feature on the face because it protrudes out more than any other part. So when the arrogant are convinced they can do as they will, they lift up their head in pride and point their nose up to heaven.
Rather than seeking God, they are of the mind that there is no God, meaning there is no judge and, consequently, there is no judgment. They convince themselves they are free to follow the dictates of their wicked hearts without being called into account. However, I’m of the view that many who deny God’s existence are merely trying to convince themselves of something they know to be false. Deep inside, even the most hard-hearted know that the vastness of the Universe didn’t just happen. Still, to override the voice of conscience, they expel God from their thoughts and, thus become the fools that say, “There is no God.”
What do you and I take away from this? First, we must fight against the human tendency of allowing pride to take root in our hearts. When people see us, they should not encounter someone with their nose stuck up in the air but a humble, contrite person who is eager to serve God by serving his fellowman. Secondly, it is our duty — each and every day – to live in a way that expresses this core truth: The LORD is our God; the LORD is One. We are to love God with all our being — body, soul and strength — so much so that it shows on our face.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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