Devotion for Tuesday, February 4, 2025

“Then he said to Him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not commit murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not give false testimony; Honor your father and mother; and You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 19:18-19).

These commandments instruct us about our behavior toward others.  Do we respect others and treat them the way we want to be treated?  It isn’t just about how we treat others, but also about realizing that I am no different than my neighbor.  They are equal in God’s eyes, and we are to treat others, no matter who they are, the way we want to be treated.  Respect others and protect them.

Lord, I want others to respect my property, be honest with me, and live faithfully in the community.  What I expect of others I should expect of myself.  In this age, we are tempted to think of ourselves as special.  In a very real way, we are all in the same situation.  We are what we are.  So help me to have a new way of thinking and to see in others what You see in them.  Guide me in the way of true life and how to live it.

Lord Jesus, I need the forgiveness that only You can give me.  I have taken from others, not been honest, nor given honor where I should.  Take me from where I have been to where I need to go.  Guide me in the way of eternal life and help me to see others the way You want me to see them.  Teach me how to love my neighbor.  Guide me to live life as You know I need to live it, here, now, and forever.  Amen.