Weight

 

Devotion: The Weight of “You Shall Not Kill”

Scripture:
“You shall not kill.” — Exodus 20:13 (RSV)
“But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment…” — Matthew 5:22 (KJV)

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Reflection:

At first glance, this commandment might seem like the easiest one to keep. Most of us have never taken a life—so we mentally check it off and move on. But Scripture calls us to a deeper understanding. The Hebrew sages—and Jesus Himself—made clear that this commandment goes beyond the act of physically ending a life.

Jesus teaches that unchecked anger, insults, and character assassination are violations of the spirit of this commandment. Embarrassing someone, destroying a person’s reputation, neglecting those in need, or harboring hatred—these are subtle forms of violence that God sees.

Our culture may downplay such things, but God holds us to a higher standard: one that values life, dignity, and peace in every interaction. The rise in violence, abortion, and the general devaluing of life around us is not just a political or social issue—it is a spiritual one rooted in our drift from honoring God as the Creator of all life.

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Contemplation:

Examine your heart today. Have your words ever wounded someone in a way that lingers longer than a bruise? Have you contributed to someone's ruin through gossip or neglect? God desires His people to be life-givers, not life-destroyers—builders, not breakers.

Ask yourself:

• Am I holding on to resentment or anger that dishonors God's image in another person?

• Have I withheld forgiveness or care that someone needed?

• Do I value every life as sacred—from the unborn to the elderly, from friend to enemy?

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Prayer:

Lord,
Search me, and know my heart. Reveal any hidden anger, contempt, or harshness that I’ve harbored toward others. Help me see the dignity of every person as made in Your image. Teach me to be slow to anger, quick to forgive, and eager to build others up. Let my words bring life, not harm, and my actions reflect Your heart of compassion. Guard me from any form of violence—whether in thought, word, or deed. I want to honor You, the Giver of Life, by how I treat others today.
Amen.