Who Can Live With God?

While God desires all people to draw close to Him through Jesus, those who accept this invitation must strive to reflect His character. We cannot simply confess our sins and failures without making a sincere effort to remove wickedness from our daily lives. To reflect the glory of the Father, we must actively purify our lives.

In Psalm 15, David describes the character of someone who is fit to abide in the tabernacle (God’s sacred tent-sanctuary) and dwell on His holy hill.

Here are the nine essential characteristics David observed:

1. Walks Blamelessly (Uprightly)

The term “walk” in the Bible describes a person’s daily manner of living. To live blamelessly does not mean we are absolutely perfect, but that we strive to live in a way that no one can easily accuse us of wrongdoing. We must pursue holiness because God is holy.

As 1 John 3:7 reminds us:

“Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous.”

2. Does What Is Right

A true believer does not just think about righteousness; they actively practice it. This means following the teachings of the gospel, Romans 1:16-17. True faith always produces good fruit in our actions, James 2:14-17. Our outer actions must match our inner faith.

3. Speaks Truth in His Heart

A godly person does not wear a mask or live a double life. They embrace truth in the deepest parts of their thoughts, where only God can see. Genuine integrity starts on the inside, in our private thoughts and motivations. Having a tender heart allows us to receive and practice God’s truth.

4. Does Not Slander

Slander (making false or damaging statements about others) has no place in a Christian’s life. The Bible repeatedly warns us to control our tongues because unchecked words can quickly destroy relationships, James 3 and 2 Corinthians 12:20. We should use our words to build others up, not tear them down.

5. Does No Harm to a Neighbor or Friend

A righteous person treats those around them with respect and love. Beyond refusing to do physical or emotional harm, they refuse to participate in gossip or spread rumors about others. Instead, they actively seek to protect and help their neighbors.

6. Honors the Godly and Despises the Vile

We should value and honor those who respect God and follow His Word. These are the brothers and sisters with whom we share a common bond.

At the same time, because we love holiness, we must reject and despise wickedness. Seeing others reject God and embrace immoral lifestyles should trouble us.

Like Lot, whose soul was vexed (distressed and troubled) by the evil conduct around him, 2 Peter 2:7, we must stand against evil. We are called to love lost souls while despising their sinful behavior.

In 2 Chronicles 19:2, the prophet rebuked King Jehoshaphat:

“Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord?“

7. Keeps His Word at All Costs

A person of integrity keeps their promises, even if fulfilling them causes personal or financial loss. While we should be wise and avoid making foolish commitments, we must honor our word once it is given.

In 1 Corinthians 6:6-8, Paul urges Christians to resolve their conflicts privately through wise believers rather than dragging each other to public courts. It is far better to suffer loss or be wronged than to damage our Christian influence before unbelievers.

8. Lends Generously

A righteous person does not take advantage of someone else’s financial struggles. Instead, they are generous and ready to help those in need. They view their financial resources as tools to bless others.

9. Does Not Take Bribes

A godly person refuses to compromise their integrity for personal or financial gain. They will not accept bribes to act against the innocent or twist justice. Their honesty cannot be bought.

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Building a Rock-Solid Character

These biblical principles are the core values of a believer. They act as a compass to keep us on the right path. We refine and strengthen these values through daily Bible study, prayer, and practice.

David concludes that anyone who lives by these principles will never be shaken. From the secret thoughts of the heart to our public actions, we must strive to be like God so we can dwell in His presence forever.

As a popular song beautifully paraphrases:

“No power of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from His hand.”