SHOWING RESPECT FOR LIFE

What about showing respect for our own life? People normally do not want to die, but some risk death for the sake of pleasure.  For example, many use tobacco, chew betel  nut, or take drugs for recreational purposes. Such substances harm the body and often kill the users.  A person who makes it a practice to use these substances do not view life as sacred.  These practices are unclean in God's eyes.  (Romans 6:19; 12:1; 2 Corinthians 7:1) To serve God acceptably, we have to give up such practices. Although doing so might be very hard,  Jehovah can give us the needed help. And he appreciates the effort we make to treat our life as  precious gift from him.

If we have respect for life, we will keep in mind the need to be safety conscious.  We will not be careless and will not take risks just for pleasure or excitement.  We will avoid reckless driving and violent or dangerous sports.  (Psalm 11:5) (note: to do so would be testing God and he doesn't like that) God law for ancient Israel  stated:  "In case you build a new house [with a flat roof], you must also make a parapet [ or, a low wall for your roof, that you may not place bloodguilt upon your house because someone falling might fall  from it." (Deuteronomy 22:8)  In harmony with the principle set out in that law, keep such things as stairs in good condition in your home so that someone does not trip, fall, and get badly hurt.  If you own a car, make sure that it is safe to drive.  Do not let either your home or your car be a danger to you or to others. 

What about the  life of an animal?  That too is sacred to the Creator.  God permits the killing of animals to obtain food and clothing  or to protect people from danger.  (Genesis 3:21; 9:3; Exodus 21:28)  However, being cruel to animals or killing them just for sport is wrong and shows utter disregard for the sacredness of life. -Proverbs 12:10. 

Next time: SHOWING RESPECT FOR BLOOD

From the Book: What Does the Bible Really Teach? 2005 and 2006