Psalm 73
In this psalm, Asaph teaches us to give little credence to words. After spending several verses outlining the wickedness of evil people and despairing over their prosperity, Asaph then says, “Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth.” (vs 9)
From that, we can conclude that words mean very little. These wicked people are puffed up with pride (vs 6) because they do not seem to experience the misfortunes that come upon others. Thus, they assume that their evil deeds are of no account, even claiming to have favor in heavenly places.
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God, in contrast, deals in actions. The psalmist concludes that “as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.” (vs 28)
Anybody can say anything. Anyone can make a claim. Talk is very cheap. True love comes in the doing. And that’s why God, who is true Love, spends more time acting than He does talking.
So, the next time you hear someone boasting (or the next time you are inclined to boast), remember that talk is cheap. Just because we may lay claim to heaven doesn’t mean very much in the end. We may be just another evil gasbag, spouting words that don’t mean anything. But God solidifies all His claims with deeds. His righteous actions back up anything He lays claim to.
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