When God's Soul Hates.

Psalm 11:5 is deep and weighty. Here's the verse: "The Lord tests the righteous, but His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence." — Psalm 11:5 (ESV) This verse shows us that both the righteous and the wicked go through testing, but what draws God's hatred is the love of violence — a deliberate delight in harm, oppression, cruelty, or injustice. Let’s explore what “loving violence” really includes, so we can truly stay clear of it: 🔥 What "Loving Violence" Can Look Like Enjoying others' pain or downfall Laughing at people’s suffering, humiliation, or failure Delighting in gossip or exposing others to shame Finding satisfaction in revenge or punishment Supporting or cheering cruelty Being entertained by cruelty (in movies, fights, games, or real life) Justifying police brutality, war crimes, or mob justice Promoting abuse of power or harsh leadership styles Engaging in or promoting abuse Emotional, verbal, physical abuse of family or subordinates Bullying or manipulation in any form Domestic violence, whether hidden or normalized Sowing discord or division Stirring up quarrels or provoking others to fight Turning people against each other for personal gain Rejoicing in conflict instead of seeking peace Delighting in violent ideologies or injustice  Following or endorsing ideologies that thrive on hatred, racism, oppression, or terrorism Seeing people as enemies to crush rather than souls to redeem Approving injustice when it benefits us or our group ✅ How to Keep Away From It Examine your heart — What do you celebrate or enjoy in media or real life? Guard your speech — Words can wound and spark strife. Be a peacemaker — Actively pursue reconciliation, not retaliation. Resist revenge — Leave justice in God's hands (Romans 12:19). Choose compassion — Love mercy, walk humbly, do justly (Micah 6:8). 🌿 Summary Even the righteous are tested — but those who love violence, who take pleasure in harm or cruelty, awaken God’s holy hatred. Loving peace, justice, and mercy is the way to stay aligned with God’s heart.