Psalm 139:24

See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139: 24 NRSV

I am not sure what to think of the words “wicked way.” This has a sexual connotation as for someone to have their “wicked way” with someone else. Wicked ways have become associated with only one form of evil that may not be as evil as other wickedness. In Psalm 139 seducing someone is not what is referred to, I don't believe. In this verse being wicked means to be evil, to be against God, or to have thoughts that go against God's will and God's way.

It is God who truly knows whether we have any “wicked ways” so to ask God to check for any is a statement of great assurance. The psalmist is saying that there are no wicked ways in them and God knows it. However, that doesn't mean there won't be any in the future. We may be following God's plan right now but who knows what will happen tomorrow or next week or even in the next few minutes. Therefore, to ask for God's guidance is to ask God to keep us away from wickedness. Often Christians pray together: lead us not to temptation but deliver us from evil. It is almost like saying lead us in the way everlasting. Help us to never have any wickedness. Make sure we stay on your path, God.

Are you confident enough right at this very moment to tell God to check for any wicked ways in you? Even if you aren't, are you willing to follow God's guidance from this moment and for all time? I encourage you to keep working on memorizing this psalm but more than that let this psalm enfold you, giving you courage and God glory. Amen.