How can we better obey the commandments listed in Mark 10:19 today? Jesus’ Words to Us “You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’ ” (Mark 10:19) Cherishing Life: “Do not murder.” • See the heart level: “Everyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:22). • Cultivate forgiveness quickly (Ephesians 4:26–27). • Protect the vulnerable—unborn, elderly, oppressed (Psalm 82:3-4). • Speak words that give life, not death (Proverbs 18:21). • Pray for enemies and bless them (Luke 6:27-28). Guarding Covenant Purity: “Do not commit adultery.” • Lust is adultery of the heart (Matthew 5:27-28). Guard eyes, screens, and conversations. • Value marriage as a lifelong covenant (Hebrews 13:4). • Set healthy boundaries with the opposite sex (1 Corinthians 6:18). • Invite accountability; purity thrives in the light (Ephesians 5:11-13). • Regularly invest time and affection in your spouse (Proverbs 5:18-19). Stewarding Resources Honestly: “Do not steal.” • Hard work and generosity replace theft (Ephesians 4:28). • Pay debts and bills promptly (Romans 13:7-8). • Respect intellectual property—no piracy or plagiarism (1 Peter 2:12-17). • Give fair wages and honest hours (James 5:1-4). • Tithe and give offerings; theft from God is still theft (Malachi 3:8-10). Speaking Truthfully: “Do not bear false witness.” • Let every word be “Yes, yes” or “No, no” (Matthew 5:37). • Refuse gossip and slander; cover offenses in love (Proverbs 17:9). • Verify facts before sharing (Proverbs 18:13). • On social media, post only what is true, necessary, and gracious (Ephesians 4:29). • Encourage honest testimony in courts, workplaces, and families (Zechariah 8:16). Practicing Economic Integrity: “Do not defraud.” • Pay fairly and promptly; no hidden fees or deceptive contracts (Leviticus 19:13). • Deliver what you promise in business (Proverbs 11:1). • Avoid exploiting loopholes that harm others (Micah 6:11-12). • Treat customers, employees, and suppliers as neighbors (Luke 10:27). • Live contentedly, resisting greed (1 Timothy 6:6-10). Honoring Parents: “Honor your father and mother.” • Speak respectfully, even when disagreeing (Proverbs 23:22). • Provide care as they age (1 Timothy 5:4). • Preserve family stories and faith heritage (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Model submission to rightful authority; it trains hearts for obeying God (Colossians 3:20). • Forgive past hurts, choosing grace over bitterness (Ephesians 4:32). Daily Follow-Through • Start the day in Scripture; let God’s voice shape every decision (Psalm 119:105). • Ask the Spirit for sensitivity to convict and empower (Galatians 5:16-25). • Keep short accounts—repent quickly when you fall (1 John 1:9). • Meet regularly with believers who spur you on to obedience (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Celebrate victories, remembering obedience flows from love for Christ (John 14:15). |
    |