Moral Amnesia: A Call to Righteous Living

Seeking divine truth amidst division

In this time, we are challenged to remember what is right, what is moral, what is godly. For true followers of Christ, evidence of genuine faith manifests in the Fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Followers of Christ are called to reflect His love in how we treat others, never with hostility or unkindness.

Civil rules of law do not perfectly align with God’s higher standard and His wisdom that guides us to pursue righteousness. God sees beyond external plans and appearances into the heart. His standard for our thoughts and actions is above our rules. While there are laws about murder, Jesus taught that murder begins in the heart and everyone who hates their brother is a murderer (Matthew 5:21-22; 1 John 3:15).

Hatred, dehumanization, and self-righteousness sow seeds of division and violence. In today’s noisy and distracted world, we must let truth cleanse our filters instead of leaning on human reasoning or public opinion.

No law or government can cure a heart problem. Laws regulate behavior, but they cannot transform lives. Real transformation begins internally and it shows up externally in how we live with others at home, school, work, church, and in our communities.

Division deepens when we avoid tough but necessary conversations. Honest dialogue can reveal shared goals even when methods differ. Pretending differences do not exist or underestimating another’s value only fuels dissent and misunderstanding. 

Throughout history, humanity has often repeated cycles of violence because we:

• Place trust in systems, status, or wealth

• Value some lives more than others

• Refuse honest self-examination

• Idolize leaders, expecting them to solve all problems 

What the world needs is NOT more pretenders. Our communities need Christlike examples in parents, teachers, coaches, and leaders who will:

• Choose righteousness and integrity above all else

• Model moral character and treat others with dignity

• Stay anchored in truth rather than focused on distractions

Just as a tree is known by its fruit, disciples of Christ are known by the fruit of love in their conduct and words (John 13:35). Love is God’s standard; it is not optional. Love does not hate, exclude, or destroy (1 John 4:7-8, 20). True Christians are set apart by the way they speak, act, and live with others. No one becomes like Jesus through words alone; they must also live as He lived. 

So let us examine our hearts as followers of Christ: Are we talking and acting like Christ? Are we sowing peace or strife towards others? Hatred or love?

Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). If the cycle of hatred is to end, let the change begin in us, having the courage to live like Christ.

Let’s raise the standard!

Call to Action:

This week, take one intentional step toward growth or reconciliation:

• Decide to live by God’s higher moral standard without compromise

• Display kindness and patience when confronted with a different perspective

• Participate in hard conversations, listen to learn, and if you respond – show grace