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You who love the Lord, hate evil! He protects the lives of his godly people and rescues them from the power of the wicked. —Psalm 97:10
Paul challenged those who love the Lord not to be “arrogant or quick-tempered . . . a heavy drinker, violent, or greedy for money” (Titus 1:7). He expected those who loved God to live exemplary lives. The challenge of controlling evil emotions, appetites, and greed is not an easy one. To serve in the position of an elder, a person “must enjoy having guests in his home and must love all that is good. He must live wisely and be fair. He must live a devout and disciplined life” (v. 8). The lives and characters of godly people must show that they hate evil and are committed to doing everything within their conscious power to remove it from their lives. The opposite of such a person is the one who tolerates evil. “For there are many who rebel against right teaching; they engage in useless talk and deceive people” (v. 10). These types of people teach wrong doctrine, love money, lie, and turn others away from the truth (vv. 11-13). They so tolerate evil that “their minds and consciences are defiled” (v. 15). These two kinds of people represent two different paths in life. If you intend to see God one day, remember that “righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne” (Psalm 97:2). Follow the upward path, for God “protects the lives of his godly people and rescues them from the power of the wicked” (v. 10).
Suggested Reading:
Jeremiah 49:23-50:46
Titus 1:1-16
Psalm 97:1-98:9
Proverbs 26:13-16
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