The Heart of Murder
Devotional
We may pride ourselves on never having physically harmed another person, but Jesus challenges us to examine our hearts more deeply. In His Sermon on the Mount, He radically expanded our understanding of the sixth commandment, revealing that murder begins in the heart with anger. Anger itself isn’t always sinful—even Jesus displayed righteous anger. The problem comes when anger possesses us rather than us possessing it. When we allow anger to take root and fester, it becomes a poison that damages us from within and spills out to harm others. Jesus equates unchecked anger with murder because both violate the sacred worth of those made in God’s image. Our culture celebrates outrage and indignation, making it easy to justify our anger. But as followers of Christ, we’re called to a different standard. The path forward isn’t suppressing anger or pretending it doesn’t exist. Instead, we must bring it before God, asking Him to transform our hearts and give us His perspective. When we recognize the sacred worth of those who anger us, we create space for understanding and reconciliation rather than destruction.
Bible Verse
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.” – Matthew 5:21-22
Reflection Question
What anger are you currently harboring, and how might acknowledging the image of God in that person help you move toward healing?
Quote You didn’t kill anybody. Good for you. But you got angry. And because you were consumed by your anger, you are just as guilty and just as subject to judgment as the one who did murder.
Prayer
Lord, search my heart and reveal any anger I’ve been nurturing. Forgive me for the times I’ve devalued others through my thoughts or words. Help me to see others as You see them and respond with Your love rather than my anger. Amen.