Psalms 36:2

For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful.

Psalms 36:2 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 36 opens by describing the wicked person’s inner rebellion: “the transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes” (Psalm 36:1). Verse 2 then exposes the root of that rebellion—self-deception. The wicked person flatters himself, convincing himself that his sins are not serious or that he will escape consequences.

Meaning

The phrase “he flattereth himself in his own eyes” means the wicked person praises, justifies, and smooths over his own behavior. He persuades himself that his sin is acceptable, minor, or hidden. This self-flattery blinds him to his own faults and makes him overestimate his moral standing. The verse says this continues “until his iniquity be found to be hateful”—that is, until God exposes the sin, either by charging guilt upon the conscience or by punishing it. Then both the sin and the sinner are seen as detestable in God’s sight and in the eyes of others.

Application

This verse warns us to examine ourselves honestly. Self-flattery can creep into our hearts when we minimize our sins, compare ourselves favorably with others, or assume we will not face consequences. We are called to humility, self-reflection, and a genuine recognition of our faults. Because God despises iniquity, we should align our lives with His justice, truth, and righteousness.

Reflection

Have we been flattering ourselves in our own eyes? Do we truly hate our sin as God does, or have we learned to tolerate it? Let us humble ourselves before God, confess our need for His forgiveness, and ask Him to give us a clear sight of our own hearts.