Sometimes, we can determine what a person really likes by considering what he or she really dislikes.
If a person detests months of ice and snow on roads and sidewalks, that person might delight in years of warm, Florida sand between his or her toes.
If a person detests heavy metal music, that person might delight in mellow jazz.
And so it is with God.
In Proverbs 6:16-19, we read of seven things that God detests. By extrapolation, we can discern seven things in which God delights.
Here is the first list:
“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 dissension in the community.
To please God more fully with our lives, I suggest that we each practice the opposites of the above items.
- eyes that depict humility
- a tongue committed to truthfulness at all times
- hands that protect the innocent
- a heart that devises rightous plans
- feet that are quick to rush to others’ aid
- a faithful witness that pours out Gospel truth
- and be a person who pours a spirit of love into those confused or wounded by others’ words
It’s clear to me which list we should practice. Please join with me in doing more often the things that the Lord will love, not hate.
And let’s pray — sincerely pray — for those in our congregations with first-list tendencies. They need our love and encouragement and example.
As always, I love you
Martin
