I came across this in my reading today, and the second part of the verse really jumped out at me.

Luke 16:15  And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.

So what do you all think “for that which is highly esteemed among men” is referring to? 

Hmm . . . things highly esteemed among men . . .

I asked my older two children to name some things they think are highly esteemed by men.  It was interesting to hear from a child’s perspective what they think are the most valued things by adults.  Here are some of their answers:

Fame (For Being an Athlete, Movie Star, Politician, or Really Smart Person)

Wealth (Fancy House, Fancy Cars, Expensive Jewelry)

Success (Everyone thinks you rock)

Sports

Fitness

Good Looks

Love

Center of Attention

Career

Wardrobe

Glamorous Lifestyle (Travel, Fine Dining, Yachts)

So anyway,  it got me to thinking.  We are so “programmed”  and brainwashed by our culture to value the same things the rest of the “world” values.  It makes me wonder . . .  how much of what we are unconsciously ( and even worse, CONSCIOUSLY) striving for does the Lord see as an abomination?  I have a feeling that most of what we place importance on God sees as idols in our lives.  I am wondering from all of you, what do YOU think this verse means?  What do YOU think ” the things highly esteemed by man”  in the verse is referring to?  What do you think God “highly esteems”?