This coffee shop series was inspired by my niece and nephew-in-law’s desire to get to know one that they sat in a coffee shop for 13 hours on their first date. When we want to know someone, we spend time with them and ask them many questions. We want to know what they like and don’t like, what makes them happy or sad, what hurts them, and what makes them mad or disgusted. I am fascinated by God, love Him, and want to please Him. I want to know what makes Him happy and what He hates. God distills those things that repulse Him in four verses in Proverbs 6:16-19. He hates things that cause humans pain and suffering. Today, we touch on the last two items of this scripture.
These six things the Lord hates; Indeed, seven are repulsive to Him:
Proverbs 6:19
A false witness who breathes out lies [even half-truths],
We And one who spreads discord (rumors) among brothers.
False Witness
A false witness is someone who lies to protect a guilty person. This causes excellent hurt, and it demeans the victim and the pain they suffered. The first verse in this series clearly shows how much God hates lying. Verse 19 goes into a type of lying that is so foul to God He has to specify it. God hates injustice more than any of us on earth. He makes it clear that He’s repulsed by those who aid in the blame of the innocent and justify the wicked. When I hear people become angered with God over the injustice in the world, it shows me that they don’t know Him. He isn’t in charge of this world; we are, and by trying to justify the horrible acts others do, we have allowed evil to increase.
He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the righteous
Proverbs 17:15
Are both repulsive to the Lord.
Spreads Discord
We may be exposed to family members with a short fuse during the holiday season, which causes drama and strife. I’ve found that those who spread discord and stir up strife held onto unforgiveness and resentment. They feel victimized and want others to get on board with them. They need others to be on board with them and will say things to get you to feel the same. It’s the cause of church splits, divorces, and long-term feuds. It contributes to toxicity in any organization. The person who causes such destruction acts like the devil and does his work; he comes to steal, kill, and destroy. God hates division because it destroys people.
15 See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled;
Hebrews 12:15
Prayer
God, thank you for letting us know those things you hate and despise that make you sick. I asked the Lord is king. I echo King David’s prayer in Psalm 51: “See if there be any wicked way and me and leave me in the way of understanding.” God, I work hard to do what’s right despite challenging circumstances, but I’m not perfect. Lord, please give me the courage to stand up for what is right, act justly, and defend the innocent when you call me to do this and start in my heart and mind. God, I choose to give you the unforgiveness and bitterness inside as you reveal it to me, not to try to get revenge or get others on my bitter bandwagon. Help me to be settled and confident that you will defend me and that I don’t need to convince others how badly I’ve been treated. Please show me the areas that displease You and lead me in understanding. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
These six things the Lord hates; Indeed, seven are repulsive to Him:
1. A proud look [the attitude that makes one overestimate oneself and discount others], 2. A lying tongue,
3. And hands that shed innocent blood,
4. A heart that creates wicked plans,
5. Feet that run swiftly to evil,
6. A false witness who breathes out lies [even half-truths],
7. We And one who spreads discord (rumors) among brothers.Proverbs 6:16-19
