I am only aware of one person that I know personally who has taken the life of another human being. But I know many who have struggled with anger and that includes me. When I see how Jesus brought the actual commitment of murder to the same level as anger, I realize that His standard is much deeper than what the law of Moses addressed. I’m not guilty of murder but I am guilty of anger as well as rage. Over the years I have mellowed a lot and anger is not an issue with me any longer. Nevertheless, I have learned that God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness of my sins of the heart have become real to me because of His grace and mercy. My prayer today is that He will help me express that same mercy and grace to others as He has towards me.
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘ Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.”
Matthew 5:21-22
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
James 1:19-20