A Godly View of Life

Conclusion of SHOWING RESPECT FOR LIFE

Having respect for life includes having the right view of fellow humans.  The Bible says:  "Everyone who hates his brother is a manslayer, and you know that no manslayer  has everlasting life remaining in him." (1 John 3:15)  If we want everlasting life, we need to root out of our heart any hatred for our fellowman, because hatred is the root cause of  most violence.  (1 John 3:11, 12)  It is vital that we learn to love one another.  

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. (same goes abuse of  alcohol) A person who makes it a practice to use these substances  does 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 a 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 of excitement. we will avoid reckless driving and violent or dangerous sports.  (Psalm 11: 5)  God's law for ancient Israel stated:  "In case you build a house [with a flat roof], you must also make a  parapet [or, 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 lawm, 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 no 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 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.

Note: Jehovah also does approve of suicide in any way whatsoever. He gave us life and only he has the right to take it away when he so chooses or when our time on earth is done. 

Next time:  A Godly View of  Life/SHOWING RESPECT FOR BLOOD

From the book: WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH?