Are You Guilty of Murder?

Daily Devotional – Thursday, June 2, 2022
Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
1 John 3:15 (NKJV)

Murder is arguably the most detestable crime. The Sixth Commandment warns, “You shall not murder.” (Exodus 20:13). Further, all countries have laws and stiff penalties against murder.

Unfortunately, there are more murderers walking freely than those in jail. How is that even possible? You ask. Why are law enforcement officers silent when such a heinous crime is being committed on a large scale?

Whoever Hates His Brother is a Murderer

Well, there is a reason. This version of murder is so subtle that even the perpetrator may be oblivious of it. For the best definition and description of this evil, we turn to Apostle John:

“Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” (1 John 3:15).

Now you know why many murderers roam freely and the police do not make arrests. While we condemn those on death row, before the perfect law of God, many of us are guilty of the same crime.

Are You Guilty of Murder?

When we entertain hateful thoughts against fellow humans, we are murderers. The connection between hate and homicide is that of cause and effect. The act of killing begins with bitterness and resentfulness.

How many times have you murdered your enemies, friends, kin, strangers, political rivals and others who deliberately on inadvertently have hurt you? As you repent of this evil, ask the Holy Spirit to fill your heart so that your thoughts will become pure and acceptable before God.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, create in me a clean heart that is devoid of impure thoughts and hatred.