Psalm 66:18

If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.

Study Bible

If I had cherished iniquity in my heart
This phrase emphasizes the internal nature of sin, highlighting that sin is not just about external actions but also about the intentions and desires within one's heart. The Hebrew word for "cherished" can imply holding onto or valuing something. In biblical context, the heart is often seen as the center of one's being, including thoughts, emotions, and will. This aligns with passages like Jeremiah 17:9, which describes the heart as deceitful. The idea of cherishing iniquity suggests a willful and deliberate choice to hold onto sin, which is contrary to the call for purity and holiness found throughout Scripture. This concept is echoed in Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, where He addresses the importance of inner purity (Matthew 5:8).

the Lord would not have listened
This part of the verse underscores the relationship between sin and communication with God. In the Old Testament, the Israelites understood that sin created a barrier between them and God, as seen in Isaiah 59:2, which states that iniquities separate people from God. The sacrificial system was established to atone for sins and restore fellowship with God. However, the psalmist here points to the necessity of a sincere heart in seeking God. The idea that God would not listen if sin is cherished reflects the principle that God desires genuine repentance and righteousness. This is further supported by 1 John 1:9, which assures believers that if they confess their sins, God is faithful to forgive. The verse also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of Jesus as the mediator who bridges the gap caused by sin, allowing believers to approach God with confidence (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Psalmist
The author of Psalm 66, traditionally attributed to David, who is expressing a personal reflection on the relationship between sin and answered prayer.

2. The Lord
Refers to Yahweh, the God of Israel, who is portrayed as attentive to the prayers of the righteous.

3. Heart
In Hebrew thought, the heart ("lev") is the center of one's inner life, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and will.

4. Iniquity
Refers to sin or moral wrongdoing, which in this context is something that can be "cherished" or held onto internally.

5. Prayer
The act of communicating with God, which is central to the psalmist's reflection on the conditions for divine response.

Teaching Points

The Condition of the Heart Matters
The psalmist emphasizes that cherishing sin in the heart hinders our prayers. We must examine our hearts and confess any hidden sins to maintain open communication with God.

God's Holiness and Our Sin
Understanding God's holiness helps us recognize the seriousness of sin. We are called to live in a way that reflects His holiness, which includes addressing sin in our lives.

The Importance of Repentance
Repentance is not just a one-time act but a continual posture of the heart. Regular self-examination and confession are vital for a healthy spiritual life.

The Power of a Pure Heart
A heart free from cherished sin is powerful in prayer. Striving for purity in heart aligns us with God's will and opens the way for His blessings.

Encouragement in God's Grace
While the verse warns against cherishing sin, it also points to the grace available through confession and repentance. God's willingness to listen is a testament to His mercy and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "cherish iniquity" in one's heart, and how can we identify if we are doing so?

2. How does the condition of our heart affect our relationship with God and our prayer life?

3. In what ways can we practice regular self-examination and repentance to ensure our hearts are aligned with God's will?

4. How do other scriptures, such as Isaiah 59:2 and 1 John 1:9, reinforce the message of Psalm 66:18 regarding sin and prayer?

5. What steps can we take to cultivate a heart that is pure and receptive to God's voice and guidance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 51
David's prayer of repentance, highlighting the importance of a contrite heart and God's desire for truth in the inward being.

Isaiah 59:2
Discusses how sin creates a separation between individuals and God, affecting communication and relationship.

James 5:16
Emphasizes the power of a righteous person's prayer, suggesting that righteousness is key to effective prayer.

1 John 1:9
Offers assurance of forgiveness and cleansing from sin when we confess, aligning with the theme of purity in heart for answered prayer.