If I Regard Iniquity In My Heart Meaning

If I Regard Iniquity in My Heart: Meaning and Implications

The phrase "If I regard iniquity in my heart" originates from Psalm 139:21, a powerful verse within a psalm renowned for its exploration of God's omniscience and intimate knowledge of humanity. Understanding its meaning requires delving into the context of the psalm, exploring the definition of "iniquity," and examining the implications of harboring such thoughts within one's heart. This exploration will unpack the profound spiritual and moral ramifications of this potent declaration.

Understanding Psalm 139: The Context of Divine Awareness

Psalm 139 is a breathtaking expression of David's awe and reverence for God's pervasive presence and knowledge. He marvels at God's ability to know him intimately, inside and out, encompassing every aspect of his being – physical, emotional, and spiritual. The psalmist acknowledges God's omnipresence, his ability to search and know his thoughts and actions, even before they are fully formed.

The psalm unfolds as a progression of increasingly intense declarations about God's all-encompassing knowledge:

• God's knowledge of his being: David marvels at God's understanding of his very creation, his formation in the womb, and the intricate detail of his body.
• God's knowledge of his whereabouts: He acknowledges God's awareness of his every movement, even in the most secluded places, underscoring God's omnipresence.
• God's knowledge of his thoughts: This is where the crucial verse, Psalm 139:21, sits. It culminates the psalm's exploration by focusing on the inner workings of David's heart and mind.

Decoding "Iniquity": More Than Just Sin

The word "iniquity" carries a weight heavier than simply "sin." While it certainly encompasses sinful acts, it delves deeper into the nature of wrongdoing. Iniquity speaks to:

• Moral perversion: It refers to a twisted understanding of right and wrong, a deliberate turning away from God's standards of righteousness. It's not just a mistake; it's a willful rejection.
• Injustice and wickedness: Iniquity points towards actions or attitudes that are fundamentally unjust, cruel, or harmful to others. It encompasses a disregard for fairness and ethical conduct.
• Rebellion against God: At its core, iniquity represents rebellion against God's authority and his established moral order. It's a conscious choice to disobey and defy God's will.

Therefore, "regarding iniquity in the heart" isn't merely about fleeting sinful thoughts. It speaks to a persistent dwelling on, condoning, or even celebrating such wickedness. It’s about actively choosing to embrace, rather than reject, these twisted perspectives.

The Gravity of Regarding Iniquity in the Heart: Psalm 139:21 Explained

Psalm 139:21 reads, "Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart." The second part of the verse, often overlooked, is crucial: "And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." This highlights David's desire for God to reveal any hidden iniquity within him, demonstrating a humble recognition of his own fallibility.

The significance of "If I regard iniquity in my heart" lies in its proactive stance. It isn't merely a passive acknowledgment of sin's presence; it's a conscious choice to entertain it. To "regard" iniquity suggests:

• Contemplation: Actively dwelling on wicked thoughts and plans. This isn't about a fleeting, unintentional thought, but a deliberate focus on wrongdoing.
• Acceptance: Condoning or even justifying the wickedness. Instead of repenting, one rationalizes or minimizes the severity of the iniquity.
• Covetousness: Desiring or longing to commit the wicked act. This shows a willingness to act on the sinful desire, even if the action itself hasn't yet been performed.

This conscious dwelling on iniquity is what David is addressing. He's not just asking God to expose his sins; he's pleading for the removal of the very root of the problem – the willingness to entertain such thoughts in the first place.

The Implications of Harboring Iniquity: Spiritual and Moral Consequences

The implications of harboring iniquity within the heart are profound and far-reaching:

• Spiritual Stagnation: Dwelling on wickedness creates a spiritual barrier between oneself and God. It hinders intimacy with God and prevents the transformative power of His grace from working fully in one's life.
• Moral Decay: Continuously entertaining wicked thoughts weakens one's moral resolve. Over time, this can lead to a gradual desensitization to sin and a greater propensity to act upon wicked impulses.
• Damaged Relationships: Iniquity often manifests in harmful actions towards others. Harbor those thoughts and you'll likely hurt others in the process, damaging relationships and creating emotional turmoil.
• Internal Conflict and Guilt: Suppressing wicked thoughts and actions often leads to internal conflict, guilt, and anxiety. This internal turmoil can manifest in various ways, affecting mental and emotional health.
• Spiritual Death: In extreme cases, persistent dwelling on iniquity can lead to spiritual death – a complete separation from God and a hardened heart impervious to repentance.

Practical Steps to Overcome Regarding Iniquity

Recognizing the potential for "regarding iniquity" is the first step towards overcoming it. What steps can we take to ensure we're not harboring wicked thoughts and intentions?

• Self-Reflection and Prayer: Regular introspection, coupled with honest prayer, allows God to reveal any hidden iniquity within our hearts. It’s crucial to ask for God's guidance and strength to overcome these tendencies.
• Confession and Repentance: When iniquity is identified, it's vital to confess it to God and genuinely repent. This involves a sincere turning away from the wickedness and a commitment to living a righteous life.
• Accountability: Sharing our struggles with trusted spiritual mentors or friends can provide support and accountability, helping us stay on track in our efforts to overcome iniquity.
• Disciplining the Mind: We must actively train our minds to focus on positive and constructive thoughts. This involves filling our minds with God's Word, engaging in uplifting activities, and limiting exposure to negative influences.
• Seeking Forgiveness: When iniquity has led to harming others, seeking forgiveness is crucial. This demonstrates genuine repentance and seeks restoration of damaged relationships.

Conclusion: A Call to Purity of Heart

Psalm 139:21 serves as a powerful reminder of God's intimate knowledge of our hearts and minds. "If I regard iniquity in my heart" isn't just a passive statement; it's a call to self-examination and a plea for divine intervention. The conscious choice to entertain wickedness has profound spiritual and moral implications. Therefore, the path to a righteous life requires consistent vigilance, heartfelt repentance, and a commitment to fostering purity of heart, aligning our thoughts and actions with God's divine will. By actively pursuing holiness and seeking God's guidance, we can overcome the temptation to regard iniquity and walk in the path of everlasting life. This ongoing commitment to spiritual growth is essential for navigating the complexities of human nature and maintaining a close, intimate relationship with God. The journey requires perseverance, humility, and unwavering faith in God's transformative power.