Proverbs repeat yet again the ills of not setting my foot on the path of the wicked or walking in the way of evil men (14). At first, I think in anguish, “Again. Ugh.” Then I realize that repetition is needed because I am so inclined to do wrong, even evil. How many times did the apostles argue about who was greatest before they accepted Jesus’ humility?
Experience seems to be a better teacher than verbal instruction until I repeat the same sin. If fact, considering all the forms one can learn it seems that in general, it takes an entire warehouse full of education methods for me to learn to reject the bread of wickedness and pour onto the ground the wine of violence. My inclination is to miss the mark of godliness and holiness.
Knowing the depravity of the human soul (as is repeated many times in the Bible) I realize and accept the ever-flowing grace of God. A good thing that Jesus came full of grace and truth because we need it to survive (John 1:14).
“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.” (Psalm 51:1-3)
