“But my people would not heed my voice,
and Israel would have none of me.
So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart,
to walk in their own counsels.”
Psalm 81:11-12

How awful the thought of God giving one over to his own counsels, of abandoning him to his own stubborn heart. The one turned over no longer feels pangs of guilt because the Spirit of God has left him, his heart is hardened, his terrible fate guaranteed.

Oh teach me to walk in your paths oh Lord, that I might have your guidance, your counsel and your blessing. Deal hard with me should I ever fall into the snare of self-will, pride, or rebellion against you. Fill me with wisdom that I may always be mindful of my need to surrender my way to you and to walk with you daily.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence,
and do not take your Holy Spirit from me.”
Psalm 51:10-11