Featuring Psalm 145:18 and Romans 10-9
In an era where authenticity is highly valued yet increasingly rare, many people long for genuine connections. This spiritual hunger extends beyond human relationships to our connection with the divine. The combination of Psalm 145:18 and Romans 10:9 reveals a profound truth about authentic relationship with God – it involves both sincerity of heart and boldness of declaration. These verses, written centuries apart, weave together to show us that genuine faith isn’t just a private matter of the heart, nor is it merely public proclamation. Instead, they present a holistic picture of what it means to truly connect with God and experience salvation. Whether you’re exploring faith for the first time or seeking to deepen your spiritual journey, these verses offer timeless wisdom about drawing near to God.
In Psalm 145:18, the Hebrew word for “near” (קָרוֹב – qarov) implies intimate proximity and accessibility. This isn’t just physical closeness but represents relational intimacy. The phrase “in truth” (בֶאֱמֶת – be’emet) carries connotations of stability, faithfulness, and authenticity – suggesting that genuine seeking is what God responds to.
In Romans 10:9, the Greek word for “declare” (ὁμολογήσῃς – homologēsēs) literally means “to say the same thing” or “to agree with.” When we declare “Jesus is Lord” (Κύριον Ἰησοῦν – Kyrion Iēsoun), we’re agreeing with God’s truth about Jesus’s identity and authority.
The word for “believe” (πιστεύσῃς – pisteusēs) implies more than intellectual assent; it suggests complete trust and reliance. The heart (καρδίᾳ – kardia) in biblical understanding was considered the center of the whole person – including thoughts, feelings, and will.
These verses develop three interconnected themes:
First, they establish God’s accessibility. The psalm affirms that God isn’t distant or unreachable but actively draws near to those who seek Him sincerely. This sets the foundation for understanding salvation as a relationship rather than just a religious transaction.
Second, they reveal the dual nature of authentic faith. The inward belief and outward confession work together, showing that genuine faith affects both our internal convictions and external actions. This mirrors the Jewish understanding of faith as something that encompasses both heart and deed.
Finally, they emphasize the importance of truth and sincerity. Whether it’s calling on God “in truth” or believing “in your heart,” superficial religion isn’t enough. Both verses point to the necessity of genuine, transformative faith.
These ancient truths offer practical guidance for contemporary spiritual life:
Cultivate authenticity in prayer: Rather than using formulaic prayers, express your genuine thoughts and feelings to God. He values sincerity over polished words.
Practice public faith wisely: While faith shouldn’t be hidden, public declarations should flow from genuine conviction rather than social pressure or religious obligation.
Align heart and speech: Regular self-reflection helps ensure your public profession matches your private beliefs and actions.
Build faith communities based on authenticity: Create spaces where people can honestly explore and express their faith journey without fear of judgment.
In a world often marked by superficiality and performance, these verses remind us that genuine relationship with God integrates both internal conviction and external expression. The God who draws near to sincere seekers is the same God who saves those who trust and confess Christ. This timeless truth offers hope and direction for anyone seeking authentic spiritual connection. Whether in private prayer or public declaration, God invites us into a genuine relationship that transforms both heart and life.