Life often confronts us with the harsh reality of violence and injustice. Lord and the Violent, from conflicts between nations to acts of cruelty in our neighborhoods, we see brokenness all around us. But God’s Word does not ignore this—it addresses it directly. Psalm 11:5 reminds us of God’s clear stance:
📖 “The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion.”
This verse highlights two truths:
God examines the righteous – He sees and knows those who strive to walk in His ways. His testing is not to destroy but to refine, proving the sincerity of their faith.
God’s opposition to violence – Violence is not just an action—it reflects a heart condition. Those who delight in cruelty, oppression, or harm to others are in direct opposition to God’s character of love and justice.
The psalmist reveals the seriousness of God’s view of violence: it is something He hates, not lightly but with intensity.
God is just – He will not allow violent acts to go unnoticed or unpunished.
Violence distorts His image – Since humanity is made in God’s image, acts of harm against others are attacks on His creation.
Righteousness is refined – Trials and testing may come to the righteous, but God sees, examines, and upholds them.
Reject violence in every form – In words, attitudes, or actions, we should actively turn from harm and pursue peace.
Be a peacemaker – Look for opportunities to bring reconciliation instead of conflict.
Trust God’s justice – When wrongs are done, we can lean on the truth that God examines every heart and will act righteously.
Psalm 11:5 is both a warning and a comfort. It warns us of the seriousness of harboring or justifying violence, and it comforts us by assuring that God sees and protects the righteous. In a world marked by conflict, we are called to live as people of peace, reflecting the heart of our God who hates violence and loves justice.
📖 “The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion.”
✨ True righteousness is not merely avoiding violence—it is actively pursuing peace and justice in the name of Christ.
