Life Is Sacred
Today's Scripture
"You shall not murder." Exodus 20:13 NIV
Thoughts for Today
This week we will continue looking at the Ten Commandments. The sixth commandment focuses on the sacredness of human life. It is designed to protect each of us in our relationship with others.
Many in our world today have less and less regard for God. Along with that decline comes a lessening of the value of human life. This decline is apparent in the growing number of abortions and acts of euthanasia. Every life is important to God—the unborn, the elderly, the sick. Everyone. And he calls us to value and protect every life.
Consider this …
You may think, "I really don't have to be concerned about this commandment—I would never kill anyone." But it goes beyond the actual crime of murder. It includes the condition of our hearts. Jesus said, "You're familiar with the command to the ancients, 'Do not murder.' I'm telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder" (Matthew 5:21-22 NIV). Hidden emotions in the form of anger, malice, rage and revenge violate the sixth commandment.
If you are holding on to anger or bitterness toward someone, ask God to help you let go. We must not let anger build and fester. Just as Jesus, in his love, paid the price on the cross for our sins, he calls us to show the same kind of love and forgiveness to others. You don't have to do it alone. Jesus will give you the strength and courage you need.
Prayer
Father, forgive me for any unforgiveness or anger in my heart. Help me let go and demonstrate your love and compassion to all people. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
The Ten Commandments: Applying the Foundations of Living to My Personal Life by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. Knowing that there are absolutes that define moral conduct and ethical decisions is essential for believers surrounded by relativistic values. This guide helps us understand God's boundaries. It shows how the Ten Commandments apply today. It also discusses the biblical laws on which the legal codes of every civilized society are based. This guide is written in a way that helps people see the Ten Commandments in light of today's problems. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
Would you like to have these devotions appear daily on your church or ministry website? Learn More
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to [email protected].
