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Commandments 6 & 8

"You shall not murder."
Exodus 20:13

These two commandments are about respecting others: “Do not murder!” Near the Ozarks there’s a farm that houses some of the world’s most deadly reptiles. Tourists who visit there eventually come to a sign announcing, “The World’s Most Dangerous Animal”. But inside the cage there’s just a mirror. All you can see is your own reflection! Could it be any clearer? Human beings are the most dangerous of all God’s creatures! They’re also the ones with the most potential for good. Jesus enlarged on this commandment. Listen; "the law of Moses says, ‘Do not murder’. But if you are angry with someone and say to your friend, ‘You idiot’ (curse someone, you are in danger of hell)” (Matthew 5:21-22). Strong sentiments, eh? Jesus knew that hatred in the human heart blinds and distorts you long before you ever strike the first blow. “Do not steal!” A woman told her husband, “You won’t believe this, but our overnight guests stole the towels.” “Well,” he replied, “people are like that; they just can’t be trusted. By the way, which ones did they take?” She replied, “The big white ones with ‘Holiday Inn’ written on them!” Just think what a wake-up call this commandment must have been for the Israelites. As nomads, thieving and looting had always been acceptable - even expected. Stealing distorts your priorities; it makes things more important than people. It violates the rights of others by saying, “I’m more important than you.” For that reason God says be honest in all your dealings and respect those around you - and He means it!

Prayer
Heavenly Father – help me to love as you loved – even in my thoughts about others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen