O you sons of men, how long will you turn my honor and glory into shame? How long will you love vanity and futility and seek after lies?
Psalm 4:2 AMPC
This verse is not a mere statement of disappointment—it is a cry from the heart of God, a call to true repentance and holiness. Humanity has always been drawn to sin and self-gratification. Yet His question, “How long?”, is not born of anger but of longing. God calls us to turn from the ways that dishonour Him and return to a life of holiness.
Can you imagine God asking you this question directly? How long will you continue in habits that displease Him? How long will you take pleasure in things that add no value to your soul—content, conversations, or pursuits that fail to glorify His name? These questions pierce deeply because they expose areas of compromise in our walk with Him.
The Passion Translation also adds more clarity: “Will you ever stop insulting me? How long will you set your heart on shadows, chasing your lies and delusions?”
Here, the Lord reveals the emptiness of worldly pursuits—the shadows we chase that promise satisfaction but deliver nothing. At times, we find fleeting pleasure in things that grieve the Holy Spirit. Yet through this gentle rebuke, God calls us higher. He asks, “How long will you keep running from what truly satisfies?”
The time for such a lifestyle has passed. God is calling us to rise above mediocrity and compromise. He desires repentance that brings transformation—a turning away from old habits and a firm walk in obedience. This call is not one of condemnation but restoration. It is an invitation to live as those who belong wholly to Him. Psalm 4:3 reminds us: “But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for Himself; the Lord hears when I call to Him.”
Those whom God sets apart are precious to Him. They are men and women who live not for pleasure or approval but for His glory. To be set apart is to belong completely to God—to walk in purity, love righteousness, and reflect His heart in a world lost in vanity.
Living It Out
Today, God’s question still rings clear: “How long?” Will you continue in what dishonours Him, or will you respond to His loving call? Take a moment to examine your heart. Surrender every habit, distraction, or desire that pulls you away from His presence. Choose repentance and holiness. Choose to live as one set apart for God.
The Lord listens when His children call, and His arms remain open to those who turn back to Him in truth.