“But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.” Matthew 5:22

The sixth commandment forbids committing murder. Murder can be both physical and psychological. The Jewish leaders taught that this meant only the actual physical death of another. Yet, to hold malice, anger, and disdain in our hearts against another is just as dangerous and murderous as the physical act.

When malicious acts against another are committed the objective is to slowly destroy or murder the character of that person in the minds and hearts of themselves and others. These are not the acts that come from a heart of love and good will; they should never be allowed into the mental space of God’s children.

We as Christians are to love, uplift and encourage one another. If we find a fault in a brother, we should seek to help and not tear down.  Galatians 6: 1 state “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”

It is imperative that we take introspection of our own selves; being careful to guard our hearts and minds against the sin that can so easily beset us.  If by any chance we dare think that we are above falling into the same or similar circumstances as others, we deceive ourselves. It is only by the grace of Almighty God that we stand and run this race as well as we do.

Let us seek to live peaceably with all men by letting the love of God shine through us, extending to others the grace of God that we so freely receive. “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.  And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 22: 37-39.

God’s grace is sufficient for us all. We can make a difference in this world by embracing and showing love to others.  As followers of Christ, let us fervently stay before the throne of grace, seeking to apply His truth in our actions and deeds; that which we give out, will certainly return…live peaceably with all men and honor God above all things.  “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:” Hebrews 10:24.