The basic definition of
the word “disgusted” is “feeling or expressing revulsion or strong
disapproval.” There are many things that we might find disgusting, such as
a foul odor, spoiled food, and foul language heard in music, television or in public.
We each have our own list of things that ignite our “strong disapproval” and disgust.
Yes, the Bible has
something to say about being disgusted. Romans 12:9, “Love must be
sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” At first glance, you
may be curious as to how this verse is even related to being “disgusted.” Let’s
look!
The word “hate” in this
passage is the Greek word “ἀποστυγέω” which is a verb that means “abhore”
or “to utterly detest.” The word “abhore” means “to regard with
disgust and hatred.” There is your word “disgust” as it is showing us in
Romans 12:9, that we are to find “disgust with” or to “passionately detest” all
forms and appearances of evil.
There are seven things
that God finds to be an abomination in His sight. We are warned that two of
those deal with the evil we, too, should abhor. Proverbs 16:18, “…a
heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil….” We
should never dwell or act upon evil, nor respond passively or blindly to the
things that are evil.
We must have nothing to
do with the ways of evil and make the decision to “not go there.” We are reminded of 1
Thessalonians 5:22, “reject every kind of evil. It is a choice and
we must choose to resist the urge and temptation to give in and answer the desires of our
flesh by succumbing to evil.
When we fall, we must
rightfully acknowledge that we made the choice. We cannot blame someone else
and say, “they made me do it.” James 1:13-14, “When tempted, no one
should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does
he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their
own evil desire and enticed.”
Always remember the wonderful
news that when this happens, and we fail, we can confess our sin to God and ask
for forgiveness. 1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful
and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
However, with “self-control”
as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, we can stand firm in our faith and rise-above
the temptations of evil to gain the victory. 1 Corinthians 10:13, “The
temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God
is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand.
When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”
It is time to take responsibility for our actions in
thought, word, and deed. No matter the influence of the ever-changing social
norms of our society and world, we must stand firm upon the principles of God’s
Word and His commands to us on how to live the holy life that is expected of us. Bluntly
stated, we are without excuse when we give in to evil and sin. We must put
forth the effort to resist urges to give into our fleshly desires.
We must cry out to the Holy Spirit to give us strength and
self-control. We need to seek a trusted friend or family member to help us,
encourage us, and keep us accountable with living out a holy and sanctified
life pleasing to God. This is why small groups or "bands" are so crucial to spiritual growth.
Nearly all the things of this world should be disgusting
enough to us that we will have nothing to do with them. Entertainment, gaming,
music, social norms, and anything that appeals to the human flesh is a tool of
Satan to destroy us. The godless things of this world add no value to us now,
or in eternity. We cannot have one foot in the world and one foot in the
Church. It is “either-or” but never “both.” Choose a side. Choose Jesus.
Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to
the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing
and perfect will.”
Take inventory of everything
that you are allowing into your life right now. Music. Social Media. Television
programs. Books/magazines. Clubs and organizations. Friends and social settings
frequented. Hobbies. Any other interest or thing that has your time and attention.
If they are not helping
you to live a sanctified life where you are becoming holy and pleasing to God, then
ask God to open your eyes and hearts so that these things will become
disgusting and abhorrent to you. God is more than pleased and willing to help
you have victory over anything that He considers evil. Continue developing and
maintaining your disgust for all forms of evil.