Proverbs 15:9

The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the LORD: but he loveth him that followeth after righteousness.

The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the Lord - not only his "sacrifice," or worship toward God (), is an abomination to the Lord, but his "way," or conduct in relation to his fellowman. So far are worldlings from having merit before God, because of their fancied obedience to the second table of the law (as is the common notion), that even their way in the world is abomination itself to Him. The tree must first be good - i:e., the heart purified by faith-before the fruit can be good.

But he loveth him that followeth after righteousness - not perfunctorily, or occasionally, but straining every effort after righteousness as the one grand object of pursuit.