Keeping Our Attitudes In Check

Verse: "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." Matt 5:22 (KJV)

Just like a doctor often requires their patients to give themselves a self examination to keep their physical bodies in check, Jesus commands us to look at our lives to keep our spiritual lives and attitudes in line with God's holiness. Jesus says its not enough to not commit murder but even selfish anger should be avoided. A person does not act out violently all of a sudden. It starts with harboring bad feelings and attitudes.

Not only are we to watch our attitudes but also how we express them. The word "raca" loosely translates as "worthless". Jesus is saying we not even to call each other derogatory names. Think about it, how many times have you called someone "stupid" or "dumb" even in jest? Jesus says that when we treat others this way we are in danger of punishment. God wants us to treat each other with kindness and consideration in both our actions and our thoughts.

Prayer: Dear Lord- Help us to keep our attitudes in check and our lives as examples of your kindness and charity. Thank you for loving us. In Jesus name, Amen.