Seven Things the Lord Hates

God’s don’t do list...

Photo by Valeria Lendel on Unsplash

Here’s what some would call the “Proverbs Naughty List!” Well, not really, but sometimes it might feel like it. What am I talking about? It’s the scripture that reads, “Seven Things the Lord Hates.” (Proverbs 6:16a-17) Of course this is not a complete list but it’s still a big deal. Right?

For starters, Solomon uses a strong Hebrew word to define his list. It’s a word that’s translated “abomination.” It carries the idea of something being disgusting. To detest or loath something or someone.

By now, some of you may be thinking about hanging up the phone! Don’t do it just yet!

The plan is to take a quick look at each of the seven and make sure we’re not actually practicing them unaware. Here we go:

1) A proud look. It’s the idea of arrogance that is manifested a particular way. It’s simply an attitude that manifests itself through your countenance. Wow! The fact is that it’s extremely difficult to hide pride and arrogance. (See Eph. 4:25)

2) A lying tongue. This is a person who navigates relationships through an act of untruthfulness. It’s the idea of feigning something or putting on a front using lies. (See Eph. 4:29)

3) Hands that shed innocent blood. The author wraps this sin in what is grammatically called a euphuism. It’s a statement that carries a general idea. He’s obviously talking about some kind of physical violence and probably even murder. (See Eph. 5:8-10)

4) A heart that devises wicked plans. The word devises simply means to fabricate, create, or form something. It is the idea of doing evil in secret, or behind the curtain in silence. (See Eph. 5:4-5)

5) Feet that are swift in running to evil. This speaks of a person who is quick to sin. They are given over to it. They traffic in sin easily, often beyond conviction and bear no shame. This is not your everyday sinner. (see Eph. 3:17-19)

6) A false witness who speaks lies. This is closely related to the first one mentioned above. It is the idea of plotting and joining in with someone for evil intent. It’s siding in with others for evil purposes, joining in to bring harm. Actually, it happens every day around us. (See Eph. 4:25)

7) A sower of discord among brethren. Notice, it is the sowing of discord. It’s the idea of spreading something, planting or promoting discord. The word “discord” means to quarrel, squabble, to cause strife. This sin could be labeled as an intentional misuse of your influence. Ouch! (See Eph. 5:6-11)

Conclusion:

Although many of the sins mentioned above seem closely related, each one stands on its own and cannot be hidden. To avoid this, we must keep in mind that none of us are immune from sin. The antidote; remember that Paul told the Romans that they “have been made free from sin.” (Rom 6:1-2)

Since sin has such a blinding effect on humanity, maybe reviewing these verses periodically wouldn’t be such a bad idea. What do you think?

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