22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.
This challenged me this morning as I too have been guilty in the past of name calling, and teasing. One step we can take is to really think about the words we use with people. Sometimes, without thinking, we can use words that put others down, or can even be offensive.
As Christians, we should be imitating Christ, and building each other up (encouraging on another). I think it has become culturally acceptable to tease a person “in jest”. We use the excuse that we are saying these things “as a friends” and “just joking with you!”. And although people laugh, and the person who is on the receiving end may laugh, they could actually be hurting inside. Plus the fact you are making fun, even in a “friendly” way, you are still possibly pointing out flaws, or simply putting that person down.
I myself often “poke fun” in a friendly way with friends, but am now challenged to reconsider my approach and to think about what it is I am saying, and how that could affect my brother or sisters feelings.
We can also apply this teaching in situations where someone says something nasty to you. It is so tempting to want to reply back with something equally as nasty! Remember all sin is sin. There is no sin that is more sinful than another. Of course in human terms we assign categories and levels to Sin and pat ourselves on the back for not committing the “really bad” sins, however this scripture points out that God does not categorise sin in this way.
Romans 6:23
23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
I have learnt 2 lessons today. Firstly, no matter how much I am “joking” I need to really consider what I say to people, and continue to imitate Christ. Secondly not to categorise sin into “good sin” and “bad sin” buckets. We will be standing before the almighty Father and Judge, who is perfect. If we go before him without Jesus, we don’t stand a chance!
Turn to Him, seek forgiveness of your sins, and continue to live for Him.
As a result of this reading, I need to go apologise to a few people!
