In our Christian walk, ignorance frequently leads us to project our opinions onto our discussions. Therefore, the journey involves a meticulous examination of our words to rectify the false narratives we may have internalized. Life is about transforming our thought patterns and ensuring that every word we speak is guided by the authority of Scripture. After dedicating three decades to memorizing and meditating on these Psalms, I have come to appreciate the depth of their language in invoking God’s favor on behalf of His covenant people. It is crucial to recognize that individuals who have developed a deeper understanding of these texts often identify the superficiality of merely conducting word studies. There is a significant difference between using the Psalms as a second language and simply engaging in cross-referential studies. Those who immerse themselves in the Psalms gain a profoundly different perspective on various aspects of life. They learn to process their experiences through the lens of the Psalms, integrating the fragmented pieces of their lives into a coherent understanding. As we live in our earthly forms, we may sometimes display traits similar to the wicked and struggle with comparable sins. Nevertheless, the fundamental difference lies in our identity; we are no longer counted among the wicked. A truly righteous person cannot revert to a state of unrighteousness and forfeit their salvation. The Scriptures clearly delineate this distinction to eliminate any uncertainty concerning our eternal security. For instance, Psalm 36:11 states, "May the foot of the proud not come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away." Here, the Psalmist employs a rhetorical technique known as alteration, allowing for the interchangeable use of "proud" and "wicked." This highlights the point that "proud" aptly describes the unbeliever. With years of practice, we become akin to cartoon characters who draw upon unique powers derived from their affirmations. This discipline becomes essential for our sense of identity and our elevated perspective on life. The Psalms encourage us to critically assess our internal dialogues, a practice that is fundamental to both understanding and applying biblical teachings. A person well-versed in this discipline resembles a professional who can easily identify the challenges faced by novices in scriptural interpretation. With time and dedication, one can invest several hours daily in this discipline, effectively identifying elements of teaching that may lead to misconceptions. Psalm 31:23 boldly declares, "Love the LORD, all his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full." This verse highlights the importance of understanding the distinction between believers and unbelievers. Unbelievers are unable to please God due to their nature, while believers, although still grappling with their inherent inability, possess the divine nature bestowed upon them by God. This divine empowerment enables them to rise above sin and corruption. Recognizing this difference is vital, especially since the biblical definition of a saint excludes the proud. The Psalmist's reference to "the proud" when discussing adversaries is particularly significant. For instance, in Psalm 94:2, the plea is made: "Rise up, O Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve." This prompts us to delve deeper into the teachings surrounding curses. Many educators tend to avoid this subject, which can lead to a muddled understanding of these concepts when they are examined in a practical light. Removing words from their original context can easily result in their careless application. Moreover, it is essential to examine the complex relationship between justification and sanctification. The hesitance of many theologians to engage with the Psalmist's references to curses may impede their grasp of the critical difference between righteousness and spiritual death. This reluctance often reflects the influence of contemporary theological movements, such as Arminianism and Catholicism, which can distort the doctrines of grace and create confusion regarding the concept of sovereign grace. Personally, I believe that having internalized both curses and blessings enables individuals to misinterpret concepts easily, often failing to acknowledge their emotional biases when teaching. There is no alternative to deepening one's understanding of faith through a thorough engagement with Scripture, akin to how we learn our native language. Teaching, in its essence, is a form of self-talk, and our self-talk significantly shapes our perception of reality. I must admit that I have a tendency to correct others; it is a habit of mine to listen closely to expressions and analyze them as part of my meditation on the Psalms. I find it difficult to refrain from processing teachings without focused intent, as my mind is constantly engaged in thought. I attribute this inclination to my familial background; being part of the Newton family, where the exploration of diverse ideas and the pursuit of knowledge are deeply esteemed, has instilled in me a profound sense of curiosity.