The Bible reveals that there are seven things that are detestable to God. These seven abominations provide insight into God’s character and what He expects from His people. Though not an exhaustive list, these seven things give us a sobering reminder of God’s hatred for sin.
1. Haughty Eyes
The first thing mentioned that God hates are “haughty eyes” (Proverbs 6:16-17). This refers to arrogance, pride and looking down on others. A haughty look reveals a heart that is puffed up with an inflated view of oneself and a low view of others. It places self above God and others. Haughtiness is rooted in self-glorification rather than God-glorification. The Bible repeatedly condemns pride and calls us to walk in humility (James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5).
Jesus exemplified true humility by laying aside His rights, taking on the form of a servant and obeying the Father even to death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8). As followers of Christ, we are called to have the same attitude of humility and to esteem others before ourselves (Philippians 2:3-4). Haughty eyes indicate a heart of pride that is offensive to God.
2. A Lying Tongue
Next on the list of detestable things is “a lying tongue” (Proverbs 6:16-17). God is a God of truth and there is no lie or falsehood in Him (Numbers 23:19, Titus 1:2). Therefore, He hates lies, deceit and dishonesty. Lying tongues destroy relationships, erode trust and defame the name of God. Those who practice falsehood are listed alongside the wicked who will not inherit the kingdom of God (Revelation 21:8).
As followers of Christ, we are called to be people of truth – speaking truthfully and walking in integrity. The Bible instructs us, “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another” (Ephesians 4:25). God desires truth in the inner person, not merely external religious observance (Psalm 51:6). Honesty and sincerity of heart matter greatly to Him.
3. Hands that Shed Innocent Blood
The third detestable thing to God is “hands that shed innocent blood” (Proverbs 6:16-17). God is the author and sustainer of life. He values life highly, so shedding innocent blood is a grievous sin in His eyes. This likely refers to murder, violence and oppression of the helpless. God equates the shedding of innocent blood with defiling and corrupting the land (Psalm 106:38). Life is sacred because humans are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).
Sadly, the history of humankind is filled with violence and bloodshed. But Jesus came to bring peace, reconciliation and restoration. As His followers, we are called to value and protect life, especially of those who cannot defend themselves – the unborn, widows, orphans, poor and marginalized. We must pursue peace, repent of hatred and be merciful as we point others to the only true source of life and peace, Jesus Christ.
4. A Heart that Devises Wicked Plans
The fourth thing God hates are “a heart that devises wicked plans” (Proverbs 6:16-18). While evil actions are detestable, the root cause is an evil heart. Outward behavior stems from inward disposition. Though humans look at outward appearance, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). A heart set on devising wicked schemes reveals a rebellious and unsubmitted heart.
The Bible declares the human heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure (Jeremiah 17:9). On our own, scheming and plotting comes naturally. But God desires truth and humility in the inner person (Psalm 51:6). As Christ’s followers, our minds and hearts must be renewed by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, so that we can know and do God’s good and perfect will (Romans 12:2). Rather than devising wicked plans, we must take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
5. Feet that are Quick to Rush into Evil
Next on the list is “feet that are quick to rush into evil” (Proverbs 6:18). When the heart devises sinful schemes, the feet swiftly carry out those plans unless there is restraint. Quickness to run towards wickedness manifests a lack of self-control and unwillingness to flee from temptation. It shows a reckless disregard for the consequences of evil. The wise person sees evil and runs away from it rather than running hastily towards it (Proverbs 14:16).
As God’s people, we must be slow to sin and quick to obey. We must flee youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace (2 Timothy 2:22). Our feet must be ready to follow God’s ways and walk in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake (Psalm 23:3). Through the power of the indwelling Spirit, we can gain victory over sinful impulses that wage war against our soul (1 Peter 2:11).
6. A False Witness who Pours Out Lies
The sixth detestable thing is “a false witness who pours out lies” (Proverbs 6:19). Bearing false testimony against others goes hand in hand with a lying tongue. False accusations, slander and perjury are sins that inflict tremendous damage. Lies that tarnish reputations, break relationships and undermine justice are utterly reprehensible. Those who freely pour out false testimony have no fear of God or regard for others.
As God’s people, we must speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and extend grace to others. We must bridle our tongues, avoid gossip and refrain from judging hypocritically (James 3:3-18). Christ followers are called to be peacemakers and repairers of broken relationships, not slanderers. Truth and justice must prevail in our words and actions.
7. One who Sows Discord Among Brothers
The final detestable thing mentioned is “one who sows discord among brothers” (Proverbs 6:19). This refers to people who deliberately stir up dissension, breed conflict and pit people against each other. Such troublemakers often create divisions in families, churches, communities and society. Their divisive schemes inflict deep wounds and hinder relationships. God highly values unity among His people and condemns those who destroy it.
As God’s people, we are called to pursue peace, reconciliation and unity (Matthew 5:9, Romans 14:19, Ephesians 4:3). We must beware of divisive attitudes that threaten the fellowship of believers. When conflict arises, we must be slow to speak, slow to anger and quick to listen (James 1:19-20). We must season our words with grace and make every effort to maintain the bond of unity in Christ.
In summary, the seven things which God hates give us insight into His holy and righteous character. He despises pride, deceit, violence, wicked scheming, reckless sin, false testimony and discord among His people. These sins often begin in the heart before being carried out by our words and actions. As God’s people, we must guard our hearts, pursue holiness and renounce these detestable things. Our lives must be characterized by humility, integrity, peace and truth as we trust in Christ alone and walk in step with His Spirit day by day.