1997-11-26 - God's Blacklist

Some of us Christians seem to have a "hierarchy" of sins. While we don't all call them "venial" versus "mortal" sins, some people feel that such sins as pride and racism can be easily confessed and forgiven, while for example, getting pregnant while unmarried, is a pockmark that should remain with a woman for life. Others of us are understanding or maybe even laugh when someone tells us about "getting away with fooling Uncle Sam" on taxes, yet are quick to point an accusing finger at someone who dresses in a manner we consider indecent. I have found that most of the time, our "Blacklist" of sins does not correspond with God's. Check out what God hates:

(Prov 6:16-19 NNAS) There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: ¹⁷ Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, ¹⁸ A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, ¹⁹ A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers.

How many of us, if asked to list a really grievous sin, would mention pride? Yet God detests haughtiness. We Americans sometimes worship pride. We applaud it. We are proud of our teams, proud of our success in school or business, proud of our children's accomplishments. There is nothing wrong with rooting for a team to win a game. It's great to have a balanced self-esteem, to appreciate God's gifts to us It's wonderful to be affirming, encouraging and supportive of our children. But we need to be balanced, we need to be careful to not step over the line. Remember the root of "fanatic" is the same as of "fan." ; ) And equate our children's successes with our being good parents.

And as I mentioned in my last devotional, it grieves our Heavenly Father, when we don't get along with our fellow believers. God "hates" it when we "spread strife." Do we take that seriously enough, what damage we might do to the Body? If we want to be Christ-followers, and to become closer to God, it's imperative that we learn what God hates and what He loves. Next time, we will discuss what He loves.

Dear Father, please help us to live lives pleasing to You. In Jesus' name amen.

Jan