1
The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.
2
The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.
3
They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
4
Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people as they eat bread, and call not upon the LORD.
5
There were they in great fear: for God is in the generation of the righteous.
6
Ye have shamed the counsel of the poor, because the LORD is his refuge.
7
Oh that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion! when the LORD bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad.
Psalms 14 Study & Commentary
Overview & Chapter Summary
Psalm 14 describes the depth of human depravity. It begins with the famous line: "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God." It highlights God looking down to see if any seek Him.
Theological Context & Insights
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS
1. The Root of Atheism: Denial of God is often a moral choice ("in his heart") rather than just an intellectual one (v. 1). It is often linked to a desire for autonomy in sin.
2. Universal Need for Grace: "There is none that doeth good, no, not one" (v. 3). This is a foundational text for the doctrine of total depravity and our need for a Savior.
3. God as a Refuge: Even when the wicked shame the counsel of the poor, the Lord remains the refuge of His people.
Practical Lessons & Daily Application
FORMAL PRAYER
Lord, deliver us from the folly of a heart that forgets Thee. Grant us the wisdom to seek Thee diligently and to find our refuge in Thy salvation. Amen.