Seven Things the Lord Hates
Proverbs 6:16-19
Key Verse:
Proverbs 6:16 – “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him.”
Observation
This passage lists attitudes and actions that God strongly opposes. Each one disrupts community, justice, and righteousness. The list reflects God’s deep concern for truth, humility, peace, and justice.
Key Words
Hate Detestable Haughty Lying Schemes Discord Innocent
Key Phrases
“Six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable”
“A false witness who pours out lies”
“A person who stirs up conflict in the community”
Main Lesson
God despises pride, dishonesty, violence, deceit, malicious plotting, eagerness to do evil, false testimony, and divisiveness. These behaviors tear apart relationships and communities. Followers of God must actively resist them and pursue the opposite—truth, humility, integrity, and peace.
Patterns
A numerical progression (“six… seven”) — a poetic device to emphasize completeness and seriousness.
All seven behaviors damage relationships—either with God or people.
The progression moves from attitudes (pride) to actions (lying, murder, scheming) to consequences (discord).
People
The “worthless person” (v. 12) as a general archetype of evil behavior.
The focus is on types of people who embody the hated behaviors, not named individuals.
Places
General community or society — where these behaviors cause harm.
No specific geographical place is named.
Reflection
God is not indifferent to our behavior—He is emotionally and morally invested. The seven detestable things are not just “bad habits” but reflections of a heart turned away from Him and toward self-centeredness and destruction. This challenges us to take inventory of our own thoughts and actions.
Application for Everyday Life
Examine your own heart for any trace of pride, dishonesty, or divisiveness.
Be quick to confess and turn from these attitudes.
Foster peace in your family, workplace, and church.
Practice humility and honesty in all dealings.
Do not spread gossip or conflict—be a peacemaker.
Cross Reference:
Galatians 5:19–21 – A list of sinful behaviors and the warning that those who practice them will not inherit the kingdom of God.
James 3:13–18 – Contrasts earthly wisdom (full of envy and selfish ambition) with wisdom from above, which is pure, peace-loving, and sincere.
Romans 1:29–31 – A similar catalog of sinful behaviors reflecting a corrupt heart.
Questions for Journaling:
Which of the seven things God hates do I see most often in the world around me? In myself?
Why do I think God specifically detests these behaviors?
How can I pursue a heart of humility, peace, and truth today?
Have I ever stirred up conflict knowingly or unknowingly? What could I have done differently?
What does it mean to be a peacemaker in my community, and how can I live that out?