Psalms 14:1-7, ; Psalms 15:1-5
Truly a fool is he who, faced with so many evidences that God has given of His power and His love, closes his eyes, hardens his heart and says: "There is no God" (v. 1; Psalms 10:4; Jeremiah 5:12). But if all men are not atheists, all without exception are lacking in true understanding. For no one seeks after this God whose existence he recognises – unless God operates in his heart.
Is it not appalling, this picture of the human race as God views it from heaven? But let us never forget that this is the race, rebellious and corrupted by nature, to which you and I belong.
After the sad declaration of Psalms 14:1-7, "There is none that doeth good . . .", Psalms 15:1-5 can fairly pose the question, "Who shall abide in thy tabernacle?" Ch. 3 of Romans which quotes Psalms 14:1-3 next reveals the glorious truth which concerns us: that amongst men, who are all shown to be sinners, God freely justifies those who believe (Romans 3:10-12; Romans 3:22-26).
The characteristics of the faithful Israelite are the same as those that grace should produce in the Christian: righteousness and truth in his walk, deeds and words; goodwill towards his neighbour; recognition of good and evil in accordance with divine standards (read Isaiah 33:15-16).