Imagine for a moment, an elderly woman tending her garden, carefully pulling weeds and planting flowers. She knows that neglect would allow unwanted plants to take over, choking out what is beautiful. In Proverbs 6:16-19, God warns against seven things He hates. These are not to discourage us, but to help us recognize the dangers of allowing sin to take root. Pride, dishonesty, and discord do not appear suddenly. They grow where they are given space, shaping our actions and harming those around us.

The opposite is also true. If God hates pride, then He must love humility. If He despises falsehood, then He must cherish truth. If He abhors division, then He must delight in unity. Just as a gardener carefully chooses what to cultivate, we must be intentional about the attitudes we allow to grow. A kind word instead of a harsh one, patience instead of frustration, and honesty instead of deception all contribute to a life that reflects God’s goodness.

Thankfully, God does not leave us to do this work alone. Through His Word, His Spirit, and the example of Christ, He equips us to remove what is harmful and nurture what is good. As we go about our day, let us be mindful of what we are planting in our hearts and in the lives of others. With care and consistency, we will see a harvest that honors Him.