God’s wrath came in seven bowls. Each of them poured out by an angel. The plagues that they delivered caused malignant worse, water turned to blood – first the sea, then the rivers and springs – the sun became so hot it scorched people, the light was extinguished plunging the world into darkness, even the Euphrates river dried up. “But,” we are reminded after each one, “they did not repent of their evil deeds and turn to God.”
I am tempted to believe that we are hopless. Perhaps there is nothing that can conquer our pride and turn to God. I would think that, but it’s clearly not true. Psalm 101 gives us a beautiful picture of David. This is what repent and turn to God looks like.
Psalms 101 (NLT)
I will sing of your love and justice, Lord.
I will praise you with songs.
I will be careful to live a blameless life—when will you come to help me?
I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.
I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar.
I hate all who deal crookedly;
I will have nothing to do with them.
I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil.
I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors.
I will not endure conceit and pride.
I will search for faithful people to be my companions.
Only those who are above reproach will be allowed to serve me.
I will not allow deceivers to serve in my house, and liars will not stay in my presence.
My daily task will be to ferret out the wicked and free the city of the Lord from their grip.