"You shall not murder."
— Exodus 20:13 (NIV)
Of all the commands God gave to His people, this one is crystal clear: life is sacred. To harm or take another life intentionally is not just a crime against a person—it is a direct offense against the God who created them.
Murder is more than just an act of violence. It is the final expression of unchecked hatred, rage, or jealousy. And even if most people never commit literal murder, Jesus shows us that the heart behind the act can still bring judgment.
Jesus Raised the Standard
"You have heard that it was said… 'You shall not murder,' and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment. But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment."
— Matthew 5:21–22
Jesus goes deeper than actions—He addresses the root. Murder begins with anger. With resentment. With bitterness that grows until it poisons the soul. You may never hold a weapon, but if you hold hatred, you are still in danger.
Murder isn't always physical. Words can kill. Hate can destroy. Grudges can consume. God cares not just about your hands—but about your heart.
Types of Physical Harm That Offend God
Intentionally injuring someone
Striking in retaliation or cruelty
Acts of revenge or planned violence
Beating or abusing the weak or vulnerable
Killing out of hatred, envy, or pride
Encouraging others to harm or kill through influence
"Hands that shed innocent blood…"
— Proverbs 6:17
God specifically calls out this sin as one of the seven He hates most. Human life is not yours to take. Only God gives life—and He alone has authority over it.
The Weight of Bloodshed
Murder carries deep consequences:
A seared conscience
Legal and spiritual judgment
Lifelong guilt or shame
Separation from peace and relationship with God
Wrecked families, friendships, and futures
"Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him."
— 1 John 3:15
Scripture is sobering. If hate lives in your heart, you are in spiritual danger—even if you've never committed the act.
How to Guard Your Hands and Heart from Violence
1. Uproot Anger Quickly
Anger can be righteous—but if left unchecked, it becomes sin. Don't let it settle. Deal with it immediately.
(Ephesians 4:26 – "Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry…")
2. Learn to Forgive
Murder often begins with bitterness. Forgiveness is not weakness—it's protection. It frees your heart before it turns to hate.
(Matthew 6:14 – "If you forgive others… your heavenly Father will also forgive you.")
3. Speak Peace, Not Threats
Even your words should reflect God's nature. Don't speak to stir violence or vengeance. Use your mouth to build, not break.
(Proverbs 18:21 – "The tongue has the power of life and death…")
4. Choose Justice, Not Revenge
It's not your job to punish evil. Let God be the judge. Trust His justice.
(Romans 12:19 – "Do not take revenge… leave room for God's wrath.")
5. Protect Life, Don't Endanger It
God calls you to preserve life—to be a shield for the innocent, not a weapon for the wicked.
(Proverbs 24:11 – "Rescue those being led away to death…")
Prayer for a Peaceful and Pure Heart
"Lord, I confess that I have held anger in my heart. I may not have taken a life, but I have thought thoughts that do not honor You. I have allowed bitterness, rage, and even hate to grow in secret places. Cleanse me. Purify my heart. I surrender all violence—physical, emotional, or hidden—to You. Teach me to value life the way You do. Make me a vessel of peace, not pain. Let my hands bring healing, not harm. I want to walk in love and truth. In Jesus' name, Amen."