Matthew 5:21-25 MSG
“You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill. “This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God. “Or say you’re out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don’t lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him.
Jesus was crystal clear that His followers must live by a higher standard … His standard. His teaching always pointed to the importance of the intent of our hearts. Anger, verbal insults, careless words, and grudges all come from a troubled heart. But the real point isn’t even about holding a standard, but rather what is right for us to live in peace and righteousness, the best thing for us and everyone in our circles.
As you heard Jesus’s words, did anyone’s face pop into your mind? Did these verses trigger an instance in your memory?
Listen again to some of the key phrases in this passage:
“The simple moral fact is that words kill.” … “This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God. “Or say you’re out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don’t lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him. (Matthew 5:21-25 MSG)
When God brings someone to mind or a circumstance, remember His words: “Don’t lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right.”
Let’s pray: “Father, thank You that You hold us to a standard, yet You have made provision by Your grace and mercy when we fail. Please forgive my words that have killed, do kill, and can kill. Teach me to make the first move to make things right. To let go and give both my hurts and my sin to You. As above, so below.”