Rise Above Culture

People of ethnic groups, have different moral principles they have adopted to guide themselves in making decisions as to what is good or bad, right or wrong, just or unjust. The decisions they make, small or big, influence their actions which may be constructive or destructive, progressive or retrogressive. How, then can we lovingly and caringly live in peace with God by avoiding harming one another or each other in the society? Believers in one true God hold that God is the origin of all things on earth, living and non-living. All these things were created by God. Human beings are the image of God 'imago Dei' and were given responsibilities over the other created things on earth, in other words, they are stewards who should act responsibly towards themselves and the other creatures in obedience to God their Creator and Owner. Doing good of any kind to fellow people and the environment, should be their obligation on earth. Any sinful or bad act to anyone is against the will of God hence in the Decalogue, found in Exodus 20:2-12, we read about the relationship required by God among the people. From verses 12 to 16 we read thus, 'Honour your father and your mother so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving to you.13 'you shall not murder.'14 'you shall not commit adultery.'15 'you shall not steal.'16 'you shall not give false testimony against your neighbour.'17 'you shall not covet your neighbour’s house. You shall not covet your neighbour’s wife or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour.' (NIV study Bible)These six commandments are to be followed in the society for the welfare of the people irrespective of colour, tribe or creed. Mutual respect and respect for life are to be observed in the world. People of all races enjoy peace and safety where such commandments are followed and the law enforcement agents will have their hard work alleviated. Who does not like to live in peace and safety? Who can choose to be disrespected, humiliated or treated unfairly? God is holy, omniscient and just; hence He wants people to live according to His will for them to have a foretaste of heavenly life where there is no tempter and sin. It is irrefutable that no one is perfect spiritually and morally but with self-control or discipline we can be better people in thought, word and deed. Theocentric and Christocentric instructions help people to transform their attitudes and behaviour for their mutual good as human beings created in the image of God. Everyday people make decisions small or big, bad or good. Therefore, they need guiding principles to behave responsibly for the good of all the people. A person living in the society, is a social being who should observe the social norms and values to live well with others and to please the Holy God and the Sovereign Ruler of the universe.