Understanding Proverbs 6:16-19 in Everyday Language
If you’ve ever wondered what actions or attitudes really displease God, Proverbs 6:16-19 gives a clear list—seven things that cut to the heart of human behavior. They aren’t just random “bad things,” but actually deal with the deeper motives and thoughts behind our actions. Let’s break them down in simple terms and see why paying attention to these can help us all live better lives.
1. Arrogant Eyes (Pride)
This is about looking down on others and thinking you’re better than everyone else. It’s the attitude that says, “I’m more important than you.” God wants us to stay humble—remembering that our good qualities and successes are gifts, not reasons to boast or treat others poorly.
2. A Lying Tongue
This means telling lies or twisting the truth to mislead people. Whether it’s to get ahead, save face, or hurt someone, lying destroys trust and relationships. God values honesty, and when we lie, we act more like the devil—who is called “the father of lies”—than like God.
3. Hands that Shed Innocent Blood
This refers to harming others, especially those who don’t deserve it. While most people will never actually kill someone, Jesus said even harboring anger or wishing harm on others is a problem. God hates all violence and unfair treatment of others.
4. A Heart that Plots Evil
This covers planning to do wrong or hurtful things, even if you never act on them. It’s about holding grudges, plotting revenge, or daydreaming about getting even. God sees what’s going on inside our hearts and wants us to have good intentions toward others.
5. Feet Quick to Do Wrong
This one is about being eager or quick to jump into bad choices—rushing towards trouble without thinking. God wants us to pause, consider the consequences, and choose what’s right, even when it’s hard.
6. A False Witness Who Lies
This is similar to lying, but with a specific twist: giving false testimony about someone else. This can ruin lives, lead to injustice, and destroy reputations. God wants us to stand up for what’s true, especially when it affects others.
7. Stirring Up Trouble Among Friends or Family
This last one is about causing arguments, drama, or division between people—whether in your family, friend group, or community. God loves unity. He wants us to work toward peace, not be the cause of fights or misunderstandings.
Why Does This Matter?
These seven things go deeper than just actions—they expose what’s really happening in our hearts and minds. Jesus, in His teachings, pointed out that sin starts on the inside, not just with what we do. If we can work on these areas—pride, dishonesty, anger, plotting, impulsiveness, injustice, and division—we’re not just avoiding “bad things.” We’re becoming the kind of people God wants us to be: honest, kind, fair, and peacemaking.
None of us are perfect, but keeping an eye on these seven areas can help us catch ourselves before we slip into harmful attitudes or actions. And when we mess up, we can ask God for forgiveness and help to do better.
Simple as that!
Minister A Francine Green I July 2025
afrancinegreen.com 