How can we avoid modern-day "abominations" that distract us from God's presence? Opening Scripture “There are six things that 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 run swiftly to evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who spreads discord among brothers.” (Proverbs 6:16-19) What “Abomination” Means • The Hebrew root conveys something utterly repugnant to God—practices or attitudes so opposed to His holy nature that they repel His presence. • These are not outdated cultural taboos; they reveal what still grieves the Lord’s heart today. Tracing Each Item to Today’s World • Haughty eyes → prideful online personas, self-promotion that belittles others. • A lying tongue → half-truths in business emails, social media “spin,” academic dishonesty. • Hands that shed innocent blood → abortion, violence, promoting media that glorifies brutality. • A heart devising wicked schemes → manipulating algorithms for greed, plotting revenge, exploiting loopholes. • Feet running to evil → eager consumption of porn, bingeing shows that revel in sin, chasing quick highs. • False witness → gossip threads, defamatory posts, click-bait headlines that smear reputations. • Sowing discord → stirring division in churches or families through criticism, partisan rancor, or rumor-sharing. Practical Steps to Refuse Modern Abominations • Daily Scripture intake—“Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) • Immediate repentance when conviction comes—agree with God and turn; don’t rationalize. (1 John 1:9) • Accountability partners who lovingly confront pride, deceit, or divisive speech. (James 5:16) • Media fasting: set boundaries on apps, shows, or sites that normalize what God hates. (Psalm 101:3) • Counter-cultural generosity—replace greedy schemes with open-handed giving. (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Pursue unity—be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. (James 1:19) Intentionally build bridges where discord threatens. • Practice truth-telling seasoned with grace. (Ephesians 4:25, 29) Guarding the Inner Life • Renew the mind: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) • Cultivate humility—remember every ability and platform is a gift. (1 Corinthians 4:7) • Nurture a tender conscience by staying sensitive to the Spirit’s promptings. (Ephesians 4:30) Scriptures to Stand On • Deuteronomy 18:9-12—turn from detestable practices of surrounding cultures. • 1 John 2:15-17—avoid loving the world and its cravings. • Philippians 4:8—dwell on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. • 2 Timothy 2:22—flee youthful passions; pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. Living in God’s Presence Rejecting modern forms of these ancient abominations frees us to enjoy unhindered fellowship with the Lord. As we yield to His Word and Spirit, He aligns our desires with His own, keeping us pure and joyful in His presence. |
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