Psalm 15 is a beautiful description of the character that God wants in His people. The psalm begins in this way: “O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill?” (Psalm 15:1 NAS95) Who is it that God will allow into His presence? Who may live in God’s tent on His mountain? Much of the answer that follows is focused on our speech. Only those who have integrity of speech may come before the Lord.
Who may come into God’s presence? It is the one who “speaks truth in his heart.” (Psalm15:2 NAS95)What does this mean? To speak truth is to speak what is correct (to the best of our ability), but also that our words would be trustworthy. Can people rely on the things you say? When you speak, can people take it to the bank? Do you follow through on your verbal commitments? What does it mean to speak truth in the heart? Our words must be sincere. The things we say should truly line up with the thoughts of our heart. Contrast this with the ungodly and unfaithful person of Psalm 12. “They speak falsehood to one another; With flattering lips and with a double heart they speak.” (Psalm 12:2 NAS95)
The one who may dwell in God’s presence is one who “does not slander with his tongue.” (Psalm 15:3 NAS95) Our words should never tear down another person. Perhaps, in our hearts, we have a low opinion of someone, or think negatively of something they have done. In those cases, it is wise to think very carefully before we speak. Slander is a serious offense in the eyes of God.
In verse four, we see once again the importance of integrity of speech. The one who may dwell in God’s presence is one who “swears to his own hurt and does not change…” (Psalm 15:4 NAS95) This is a person who will not go back on his word, even if it later becomes clear that it is going to cost him. Yes, to go back on what you said you would do is sometimes necessary (in cases of emergency or serious unforeseen circumstances) but doing so should never be done lightly. As the people of God, let us make sure that our word is as good as gold.
—Scott Colvin
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