Daily Devotions
Psalms
Psalm 78:36a "Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth..."
Day 133 – Psalm 78
“Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth…” Psalm 78:36a
A CANDID APPRAISAL
The psalmist Asaph was most candid in his appraisal of the attempt by the children of Israel to return to God.
“Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth,
And they lied to Him with their tongue.”
Psalm 78:36
1. “Nevertheless”
a) This was a critical and honest appraisal.
b) It showed Israel in its true colours.
2. “They flattered Him with their mouth”
a) Flattered Him
i) By saying the right things.
ii) By doing the right things.
iii) Ritualistic repentance was demonstrated.
b) But how far does flattery go with God?
i) Would God be easily flattered?
ii) Would God accept such expressions of worship?
3. “They lied to Him with their tongue”
a) Ultimately flattery is nothing but lies.
b) The tongue can say the nicest things.
c) But if the tongue lies to God… Would those words be acceptable to Him?
d) Would this not make things even worse?
GOD KNOWS OUR HEART
It would be absurdly foolish to think that God can be deceived by outward forms of worship. God spoke through Isaiah, the prophet, to Israel in his time.
“Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths
And honour Me with their lips,
But have removed their hearts far from Me…”
Isaiah 29:13a