As Christians, our main goal is to live a good, righteous life. We are called to act in ways that reflect our faith and values, using God’s words as our guiding principle. But the Bible doesn’t just tell us what to do; it also warns us about what to avoid. There are certain behaviors that can harm relationships, hurt our spiritual growth, and distance us from God. Let us look at these 18 behaviors the Bible strongly advises against. These aren’t just old rules. They are timeless truths that still matter today.
Lying
We’ve heard of the old saying, “The truth will set you free.” But how often do we take it to heart? The Bible is clear about the importance of honesty. Proverbs 12:22 tells us, “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.” This shows how much God values truthfulness. The act of lying not only damages relationships but also distances us from God and His purpose for our lives.
Gossip
While some people might think that gossip is harmless, the Bible takes a different view. Proverbs 16:28 warns, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” When a person gossips, they’re spreading negativity that can lead to lasting damage. Be careful of gossip that disguises as just idle chatter – it’s far more dangerous than it seems. Instead of gossiping, let’s focus on using our words to encourage and unite others.
Stealing
Exodus 20:15 cannot be more straightforward with the commandment, “You shall not steal.” Whether it’s something small or large and significant, the act of stealing will never be an acceptable Christian behavior. The Bible is clear about its consequences and encourages us to work honestly for what we have and to respect what belongs to others.
Slander
Just like lying and gossiping, the effects of slander can be deeply harmful. Ephesians 4:31 warns against such behavior, urging us to avoid “slander, along with every form of malice.” It’s not just about saying things that aren’t true. It’s about actively damaging someone’s reputation, causing mistrust and harm not just to the person being targeted, but also the community around them. Instead of tearing others down, the Bible calls us to use our words to support and uplift others.
Coveting
Both the Old and New Testaments strongly warn against coveting or desiring what belongs to others. This harmful behavior can lead to dissatisfaction and discontent. It disrupts our peace and can lead to actions that might harm others. Instead of looking at your neighbor’s grass and wishing it was yours, focus on nurturing and improving your own lawn.
Drunkenness
Galatians 5:19-21 lists drunkenness as one of the “acts of the flesh” that are against living a life guided by the Spirit. When we allow ourselves to become inebriated, we risk making poor decisions, losing self-control, and harming ourselves and others. Proverbs 20:1 also says, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” The Bible encourages us to practice moderation and self-discipline so that we may remain in control of our actions and choices.
Sexual Immorality
In 1 Corinthians 6:18, Paul instructs, “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” The Bible calls us to honor God with our bodies and maintain purity and respect in our relationships.
Anger and Rage
When we allow anger to control our actions, the outcomes can be destructive. That’s why multiple Bible verses strongly advise against this behavior. Psalm 37:8 reminds us to, “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.” We should learn to manage our anger and always respond with patience and calm.
Harboring a Grudge
Forgiveness is a central theme in Jesus’ teachings. He taught us that holding onto grudges and failing to forgive others can disrupt our peace. It leads to bitterness that can lead to emotional and spiritual harm. We are called to let go of resentment as a reflection of God’s mercy.
Judging Others
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” – Matthew 7:1-2
When we judge others, we sometimes fail to recognize our own faults. It leads to hypocrisy and unfair criticism. The Bible always reminds us to approach others with empathy while focusing on our own growth, instead of passing judgment.
Adultery
In Exodus 20:14, the commandment is clear: “You shall not commit adultery.” This command emphasizes faithfulness and respect in marriage. Adultery is a behavior that undermines the sanctity of marriage and is therefore condemned by the Bible. Even looking at someone with lustful intent is equivalent to committing adultery in the heart. (Matthew 5:27-28).
Murder
Taking another person’s life is not just morally wrong; it is also lawfully and spiritually condemned. Exodus 20:13 explicitly commands, “You shall not murder,” reflecting the Bible’s strong stance on preserving life.
Witchcraft and Sorcery
The Bible strongly forbids engaging in occult practices such as witchcraft and sorcery. These practices involve seeking power outside of God’s will, leading to spiritual deception and harm. In Galatians 5:19-21, witchcraft is listed among the “acts of the flesh” that Christians should avoid.
Idolatry
Idolatry is not just about worshipping physical idols, but it is more about placing anything – wealth, power, or personal desires – above God. It is the second of the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God alone and not allowing anything to take His place.
Blasphemy
Talking irreverently about God or showing disrespect toward His name is a behavior the Bible strongly advises against. It shows a profound disrespect for His authority. In Matthew 12:31, Jesus warns, “And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.” This verse emphasizes the gravity of blasphemy and how it impacts our relationship with God.
Hypocrisy
“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.” – Matthew 23:27
The imagery used by Jesus to describe the hypocrisy of the Pharisees paints a vivid picture of their duplicity. According to Jesus, hypocrisy isn’t merely about putting on a false front, but it’s about a serious disconnect between how we present ourselves and what we are really like inside. The Bible urges us to be genuine, making sure that our actions truly reflect our beliefs and values.
Greed
In children’s stories, greed is often portrayed as a green-eyed monster that’s always hungry for more. This vivid imagery captures how greed drives us to constantly desire more, regardless of what we already have. The Bible strongly warns against such behavior, as seen in Luke 12:15 where Jesus advises, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Instead of allowing greed to dominate our lives, the Bible calls us to practice contentment and generosity.
Pride
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” – Proverbs 16:18
Pride isn’t just an emotion; it’s a behavior that can make us feel self-sufficient and create distance between us and God. The Bible encourages us to stay humble and acknowledge our need for God’s grace. Letting pride control your actions or choices only pushes you away from God. Embracing humility helps you build a closer relationship with Him and foster more genuine relationships with those around you.
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Vidivir is a dedicated high school teacher and a loving mother of three. With over a decade of experience as a blogger and article writer, she has honed her craft in storytelling. As a devoted church lector and servant of God, she combines her passion for writing with her faith, aiming to inspire others through her words.