The game of hide-and-seek was a favorite for the kids in our small-town neighborhood. We would play outside in the afternoon, and certain friends were better at hiding. Most days, I was “seeking,” looking behind bushes and high up into the apple trees to find the others.
In Psalm 14, David compares two groups of people—those who do not recognize God and others who seek God. He uses some forceful words for unbelievers and shares characteristics of those who walk with the Lord.
Only fools say in their hearts, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good!
- Psalm 14:1
He pointedly calls them “fools” and says they’re corrupt, evil, and do no good. These people do not acknowledge God and wrongly believe they have no need for God in their lives. There is no evidence of a desire for godliness.
The Lord looks down from heaven on the entire human race; He looks to see if anyone is truly wise, if anyone seeks God.
- Psalm 14:2
In verse 2, the Psalmist points to God’s watchful eye over all people on earth. Notice the two qualities He looks for—those who are truly wise and those who seek God. These features are intertwined and woven together.
Scripture teaches us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Ps. 111:10; Prov. 1:7). When we humble ourselves and surrender our hearts to the Lord, the door of Godly wisdom opens. In the New Testament, James encourages his audience to acknowledge their need for God’s wisdom (James 1:5). The Lord generously gives wisdom to all who ask and seek it in their lives.
If anyone is truly wise … he will affirm the Lord is the source of all wisdom.
If anyone seeks God … he will gain sound wisdom and walk in integrity before the Lord.
For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity,
- Proverbs 2:6-7
Sadly, the Psalmist continues to reveal people’s stubborn hearts.
But no, all have turned away; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not a single one! Will those who do evil never learn?
- Psalm 14:3-4
Our God is patient and long-suffering. He looks for those who seek Him and desires for each of us to walk in fellowship with Him. And we can be assured that God is with those who obey Him (Psalm 14:5).
Head to Heart
Do I seek God’s wisdom? Do I fervently seek the Lord each day?
Is it your heart’s desire to diligently pursue and search God’s Word?
This is not a checklist for morning quiet time—read my Bible and pray. Check. Yes, all done for today. Instead, seeking God flows from a deep longing to know Him in new ways. It takes practice.
The Lord is always looking for those who are truly wise and those who seek Him.
You will seek Me and find Me, when you seek Me with all your heart.
- Jeremiah 29:13
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