Thoughts in Worship

Message Magazine's Online Devotional for Thursday, March 8, 2018

Audio Link: https://www.spreaker.com/user/reachmanyradio/thoughts-in-worship-03-08-2018

This is devotional thought number 32 in our devotional series titled, “Wisdom for the Ages.”

“There are six things that the Lord hates, even seven things that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift to run to evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who spreads discord among family members.” (Proverbs 6:16–19, NET).

Today’s Scripture focus is self-explanatory; however, I would like to make a few points for your consideration. In this list of things God absolutely hates, we should be struck by the number seven. Seven is a biblical number of completion and holy perfection. So, immediately, before we even delve into the specifics, it is safe to say that God has perfect hatred for those things He calls abominable, which brings me to me next point: our view of abominable things is so different than His. I can think of a few things people would have put in an abomination list in priority over these. This just proves that God’s thoughts and ways are much higher than our thoughts and ways. He knows how these issues can lead to inestimable woe.

Before I move on, let me explain what an abomination is, since we don't use this word in everyday parlance. An abomination is a detestable or abhorrent thing. Biblically, an abomination is spiritually detestable or abhorrent. For example, most would agree, with this simple definition in view, that child molesting, sex trafficking, wife burning, cannibalism, and genocide are detestable. Even in our sinful state, the initial or basic uncomfortability with certain heinous acts alerts us, with the Holy Spirit’s help, to the fact that some things should never be done, under any circumstances.

Since God’s ideals and character are infinitely higher than ours, we need His Spirit to learn to hate His list of seven abhorrent things. Let’s restate them:


Self exaltation and narcissism puts self above all else and others. This level of pride makes it impossible to accept wise counsel, even from God. Without humility, we cannot turn from our evil ways.
Lying is born from the devil’s seed. He is the father of lies. People lose their lives and salvation because of lies.
Murder is another abomination born from the devil’s seed. Not only do murderers take lives that they did not create, but they also cherish thoughts, that even if not carried out, put them in danger of the judgment. God sees the murderous heart.
Some people scam, cheat, and devise wicked schemes that disturb people’s peace, put folks in danger, ruins people financially, and abuses people. God hates scamming.
Have you ever met someone who’s always “down for whatever”? If somebody is getting a few associates together to beat someone up, these people are ready. If someone is planning some sort of heist, call on them. If a group is going drinking and carousing, they are there and ready to go. We should be swift to holiness, and not evil.
False accusers, perjurers, lying witnesses, and those who deliberately withhold or hide critical information from stories in order to mask the truth, are just as abhorrent as false prophets. False prophets lie and blame it on God. Again, the devil is the father of lies. Thus, those who have this habit are his children.
Those who spread discord and strife bring danger and poor relationships into every situation. When strife is in play, God does not make the lionshare of His power available to those who embrace the strife. This is why He told His people to seek unity in the upper room during the...