What Jesus Says About Murder

What happened in Newtown, Connecticut made me question why such terror happens. People often ask why a loving God would allow it. I cannot give God the credit. No, this utter evil is evidence that Satan lives in some people. If they have rejected God, they give Satan full access to their lives. 

Murder begins in the heart. "You have heard that it was said to our ancestors, 'Do not murder,' and whoever murders will be subject to judgment," Jesus said. "But I tell you, everyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment" (Matt. 5:21-22).

We cannot avoid the pain some people cause by things they say or do to us, but we can control how we respond. It is better if we can forgive our offenders and make every effort to reconcile (restore the relationship to what it was before the painful incident), and show love to the person. If we hang on to the anger and store it away in our hearts, it can become an ugly thing inside us. Then other sins stack on top of it.

For example, many of the Jews hated Jesus. The things He said made them angry and they became jealous of His popularity. Their anger turned to hate and they began to look for ways to kill Jesus. It is strange that these Jews were religious leaders. They studied God's law, but they were ready to sin to get rid of Jesus. That's what they thought they accomplished on the cross. Thanks be to God, He rose from the grave, pushed away the stone and more than five hundred witnesses saw Him and talked to Him before He ascended into Heaven. Jesus overcame sin, death and Satan.

Think About It
The children who died at the hands of a very evil man are in Heaven with Jesus today. But their families' hearts are broken (mine too). Don't let your anger get out of control so that you sin and hurt others. Forgive people who mistreat you and ask Jesus to help you. He said He would always be with us. We are never alone.

Pray About It
Thank you, Father God, for showing us a way out of sin. Help us the next time we are angry to know You are with us. Teach us Your ways and show us your paths. O Lord, comfort the families of those lost in Newtown. Show them your amazing love and compassion. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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