“You shall not murder.” Exodus 20:13
When we look upon another human being, we are not merely looking upon a physical form created by God, but we are looking at the reflection of God that is imaged in that person. This commandment addresses the literal taking of human life, but it also reveals the heart God wants his people to have for others. We are not only to keep from murder, but we are to refrain from behaviors and attitudes that diminish or demean life.
Questions
- Are there certain types of people or people groups that you have a harder time seeing as a reflection of God’s image? Why? Is this sin?
- What are some ways that society diminishes or demeans others that is considered socially acceptable?
- Is there someone specific whom you have not honored as a creation of the holy God? How will you repent to that person and begin to honor them rightly?
- When you are demeaning another in your mind and heart, what other emotions are you most often feeling? What does this reveal about what you believe that is not true? Where is your worship landing?
- What could you do to honor the life God has created in a practical way?
Pray
Father of the living, we as your creations thank you for the life you have given us. Forgive us for not honoring all you have created as we should. Give us wisdom and direction as we seek to worship you by loving our fellow human beings as reflections of you. When we demean and diminish others, we are demeaning and diminishing you. Help us to love well without any other aim than to worship and please you. Amen.
This devotion is adapted from the Ten Commandments Study Guide.
