Scripture to Read: Exodus 21:12–16
Today, we look at what God said about murder and kidnapping in Exodus 21:12–16, “He who strikes a man so that he dies shall surely be put to death. 13 But if he did not lie in wait for him, but God let him fall into his hand, then I will appoint you a place to which he may flee. 14 If, however, a man acts presumptuously toward his neighbor, so as to kill him craftily, you are to take him even from My altar, that he may die. 15 He who strikes his father or his mother shall surely be put to death. 16 He who kidnaps a man, whether he sells him or he is found in his possession, shall surely be put to death.” God gives us specific details with His perfect Law. We know we have man-made laws, but those came from God’s perfect Law. Life is precious because everyone is made in God’s image. But God also let it be known that, at times, the consequence of killing, such as murder, will be that the murderer will forfeit their life. God has the right to set out His statutes, commands, laws, precepts, or whatever else we may call them because He is God. We do not have the right to question God’s perfect Law, but we must walk in His Truth and ask Him for His discernment so we do not misinterpret His Truth. Murder is never acceptable to God, and He also mentions kidnapping as a sin that is punishable by death. God wants all of His creation protected.
Challenge & Application
· What did God teach you today about murder and kidnapping that you did not know before?
· God loves all of us who have been made in His image. So, how have you experienced God’s love?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!