Roots of Rebellion

(Proverbs 17:19 KJV)  He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.

Certain beliefs seem to hang in the same closet.  For instance, if you believe abortion is killing of an innocent child, you usually also believe that marriage is a life-long covenant between one man and one woman.  I realize that some people stray off the reservation, but usually you can take this to the bank.

Here it is saying the same thing about personality traits.  Some just go together.  Some people love “transgression” (6588).  Although it is rarely translated “sin,” that is the basic idea.  The slant of this word is sin as rebellion.  We are not talking about the person who sins from weakness or ignorance.  We are talking about people who look you in the eye and step over the line.  This is the guy who deliberately cuts you off in traffic and gives you the gesture.

The first part of this verse is pretty clear.  Some people love “strife” (4683) with God.  I would assume that they get what they want.

So?  Are you seeking a life of peace or confrontation?  The first step down the road has to do with your attitude.  Start with rebellion or submission.  Reap the reward.