CWW Week 35 - Hatred - Day 4
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Devotional: What God Hates
Scripture:
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies
and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.” – Proverbs 6:16–19 (NIV)
When we talk about God, we often focus on His love, grace, mercy, and patience—and rightly so. But the Bible also tells us that there are things God hates. Not people, but specific attitudes and behaviours that contradict His character and tear apart what He created to be good.
In Proverbs 6:16–19, we find a sobering list—seven things that are “detestable” to God. These verses give us an unfiltered look at what breaks His heart and damages His people. They also challenge us to look inwards and ask, “Is any of this in me?”
1. God Hates Pride and Dishonesty
The list begins with “haughty eyes”—a picture of pride and arrogance. Pride is often the root of so many other sins. It causes us to see ourselves as better than others, to ignore correction, and to resist God’s guidance.
Next comes “a lying tongue.” God values truth deeply because He Himself is Truth (John 14:6). Lies destroy trust, relationships, and integrity. Whether it’s a little white lie or a full-blown deception, dishonesty has no place in a life aligned with God.
Both pride and lying often go hand in hand—we lie to protect our image, justify our actions, or manipulate outcomes. But God calls us to humility and honesty, knowing that truth sets us free.
2. God Hates Violence and Evil Intentions
“Hands that shed innocent blood” speaks to violence and injustice. While this clearly includes physical violence, Jesus expanded the definition in Matthew 5 when He said that even hatred in the heart is like murder.
Next, “a heart that devises wicked schemes” addresses the unseen motives behind the actions. God sees not only what we do but why we do it. Plotting harm—whether through gossip, manipulation, revenge, or deception—is offensive to Him.
Then there’s “feet that are quick to rush into evil.” This speaks to people who chase after sin rather than fleeing from it. They don’t stumble into wrongdoing; they pursue it eagerly. God calls us to resist evil, not run toward it.
3. God Hates Division and False Testimony
“A false witness who pours out lies” goes beyond simple lying. This is about damaging someone’s reputation or future through deceit. It’s bearing false witness, twisting truth to harm others, often to benefit oneself.
Finally, the list ends with “a person who stirs up conflict in the community.” This is especially serious. God hates division among His people. Whether it’s in families, churches, workplaces, or friendships, those who sow discord break the unity that God desires. Often, this is done subtly—through gossip, criticism, or behind-the-scenes manipulation—but its effects can be devastating.
Living What God Loves
This passage isn’t just a list of “don’ts.” It’s an invitation to pursue the opposite: humility, truth, justice, pure motives, peace, and unity. These are the things that reflect God’s heart.
We may not tick every item on this list, but all of us have fallen short in one way or another. The good news? God’s grace covers us, and His Spirit empowers us to change. These verses remind us to take sin seriously, not to feel condemned, but to be transformed—so we can walk in step with the One we follow.
Reflection Questions
- Which of the seven things God hates stands out to you the most—and why?
- Is there any area in your heart (pride, deceit, gossip, etc.) that needs to be brought into the light?
- How can you actively work toward peace and unity in your relationships this week?
Prayer
Dear Lord, Papa God,
Thank You for loving me enough to speak truth—even when it’s hard to hear. I don’t want anything in my heart or life to reflect what You hate. Search me and reveal any pride, dishonesty, selfish motives, or division within me. Cleanse my heart, and help me to live in a way that honours You and brings peace to those around me. Shape my character so that it reflects Your love, justice, and humility.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Have a great day today with Jesus.
Graham Hood.
