“There are six things the Lord hates—
no, seven things he detests:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that kill the innocent,
a heart that plots evil,
feet that race to do wrong,
a false witness who pours out lies,
a person who sows discord in a family.”
— Proverbs 6:16–19 (NLT)
A Sobering List
There’s something deeply sobering about reading that God hates certain things. As a loving Father, God is full of mercy and grace—but He also draws clear lines regarding what He detests. This list in Proverbs 6 is not random. It reveals what disrupts justice, destroys relationships, and dishonors His name.
Let’s walk through this ancient wisdom and apply it to our modern lives.
1. Haughty Eyes — Prideful Glances
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” — James 4:6
This isn’t just about arrogance—it’s about looking down on others. When we adopt a superior attitude, we forget that every person is made in the image of God. Whether it’s social status, education, wealth, or even spiritual maturity—pride poisons our perspective.
2. A Lying Tongue — Deception That Destroys Trust
Lying may seem like a “small sin” to the world, but to God, it’s a serious offense. Whether it’s shading the truth, exaggerating, or flat-out deceit, lies erode the foundation of trust in families, churches, and communities.
3. Hands That Kill the Innocent — Violence and Injustice
This includes physical violence, yes, but also applies to unjust actions—like abusing power, exploiting the vulnerable, or turning a blind eye to oppression. God is passionate about protecting the innocent.
4. A Heart That Plots Evil — Hidden Malice
Jesus taught that sin starts in the heart. Planning harm, manipulating others, holding onto secret bitterness—all of this grieves God. What we daydream about matters.
5. Feet That Race to Do Wrong — Eager to Sin
It’s one thing to stumble into sin. It’s another to run toward it. This phrase describes someone who enjoys wrongdoing and eagerly participates in it. God wants us to be quick to do good, not evil.
6. A False Witness Who Pours Out Lies — Corrupt Testimony
This goes beyond personal dishonesty. A false witness destroys others by lying about them, whether in court, gossip, or social media slander. God loves truth and justice. Bearing false witness perverts both.
7. A Person Who Sows Discord in a Family — Division and Strife
This last item strikes at the heart of community: family unity. Whether it’s within a biological family or a church family, sowing division—through gossip, criticism, or manipulation—is detestable to God. Unity is sacred.
Final Thoughts: A Heart Check for Every Believer
This list isn’t just about “bad people out there.” It’s a mirror to examine ourselves. As believers, we are called to reflect God’s heart—not the things He hates.
Ask yourself:
- Am I walking in humility?
- Am I truthful and just?
- Do I build up or tear down?
- Do I bring peace or division?
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” — Psalm 51:10
May we be people who love what God loves—and hate what He hates.
Have a thought or question about this passage? Leave a comment below or share how God has used Proverbs 6 in your life.
Let’s pursue hearts that please the Lord.
— Mark
