Proverbs 6:16-19 “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.”
It is very important to know what God finds detestable. Most of this list contains attitudes and actions that are all too common, too easily accepted, and too readily excused in ourselves and in others. It’s notable that the first thing on the list is haughty eyes. To feel and act superior to others is a huge driver of human behaviors and values. Underlying much of this quest for comparison and self-importance is an attempt to cover over the guilt of unacknowledged sin. In fact, the other six detestable things are often done in support of this quest.
Father, please keep me from these detestable things. Show me where I have made excuses and compromised and then tried to cover it with pride. I want to please you today and bring honor to your name as I represent you before others.