Detested or Loved

DEVOTION
PROVERBS
DETESTED OR LOVED
Prov 15:9
9 The LORD detests the way of the wicked
but he loves those who pursue righteousness.
NIV
Perhaps it is not the Lord who classifies those who are wicked, but it is themselves by their own lifestyle, their own ways. Man does have a choice as to how to live and what course of actions or behaviors are acceptable and which are not. Man has the choice to think any way he desires. Man has the choice to pursue wicked evil ways or to pursue after the righteousness of God. Although it is quite clear God desires all to come to him, so that none will perish, there will be those who chose to live in a manner which is detestable in his sight. It would also make perfect sense the reason he detests their ways is because he does not want them to perish, which if they continue to live in such a way, perishing will be their end. God does not take pleasure in pouring out his wrath on anyone as he sent his son to die for the whole world, for all of mankind so that it would be possible for all to be saved and none to perish. But it seems there will always be those who seek out wicked ways. It is also clear God loves those who pursue after him, after his righteousness. This surely does not imply a race of perfect people, but a group of individuals who have decided not seek after wicked ways, even though some may commit some wicked behavior, think, act or speak inappropriately, response in the wrong way, but they decided to seek after the ways of God instead. The act of pursuing righteousness is a journey in the right direction, but it is still a journey, a walk, a path of life. This journey certainly contains some bumps, some ups and downs, a few detours so to speak, as certain distractions may cause wavering to the edge of the path, but at least the desire is to remain on this path, this journey after a life of righteousness. Of course Jesus is the righteousness of God and thus that is the pursuit of wise people. They seek after Jesus, and once found are saved. It surely pleases God when someone accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior for he does not have to see them perish but may grant then entrance into his kingdom. Each must make the choice, but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. We will be loved.