Words of Encouragement March - 23 - 2003
When we have a deep and reverential respect for our Holy God, we are going to love what he loves and hate what he hates. We need to realize, however, that the word "hate" is used very carefully in Scripture. This strong verb is not used often, and when it is used with God as the subject, the object of God's hatred needs to be noticed. God hates evil and therefore Christians should also. God wants his people to be people of character -- people of humility, moral behavior, and helpful speech.
Proverbs 8:13 tells us what God "hates."
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the forward mouth, do I hate.
Let us pray
O holy and righteous Father, forgive us of our pride and self-interest. Forgive us for our arrogance and deceptive tongue. Remake us by your Spirit to be holy in word and deed, compassionate toward those in need, and freed from evil. To you, O LORD, be the glory.
In Jesus' name.
Amen.