A Daily Devotion for Tuesday, February 1

Matthew 5: 21-24

”You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ’You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the alter and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the alter. First go and be reconciled with your brother, then come and offer your gift.”

We all have heard stories of people holding grudges. For years and years, they feed the fire of their anger, and at the same time go about their lives. They go to church, say their prayers and give money to the church and other good causes, yet they won’t talk to their brother, or their sister, or their friend who hurt them 15 years ago. God wants us to reconcile with one another. He tells us in plain words that our offerings can and should wait until we have let go of our anger.

Heavenly Father, help me to see when anger is in my way, and when I am hiding behind something to avoid forgiving. There should be no room for anger in my life. Help me to love more freely. Amen

Becky, transforming