Proverbs 28:17

The book of Proverbs gives us a lot of instruction on a lot of different subjects. One subject that can keep us in God’s wisdom is Godly Follower-ship. Who we follow; where we follow; how we follow are all spoken about in Proverbs. Here is one of them about anger:

Proverbs 28:17 (NASBStr)

A man who is laden with the guilt of human blood

Will be a fugitive until death; let no one support him.

Proverbs 28:17 (ESV Strong's)

If one is burdened with the blood of another,

he will be a fugitive until death;

let no one help him.

Before we actually look at the meaning of this proverb we need to remember Jesus' words in Matthew.   Note what the Savior says about "murder" in the New Testament:  

Matthew 5:21-22 (NASBStr)

 “You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not commit murder’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, ‘You good- for- nothing,’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell.

Jesus tells us that murder and anger have the same seed.   So to be angry at your brother is to suffer as a murderer.  Now read the above proverb again.  Solomon is telling us that a person who commits murder (with the same seed of those who have anger) will be tormented.   The guilt of murder will stay with them.  They can't find relief.  In fact, Solomon goes on to say that NO ONE should support him when he looks for relief for his guilt. Having the spirit of murder, or committing the act of murder, will have guilt that can't be soothed.  Not unless, by faith, they come to the ONLY ONE who can solve their guilt, Jesus.   Only Christ can cure guilt.   If you are angry you have the seed of murder in your heart.  Save through Christ you will live in never ending torment.  It is wisely said that when you are angry at others it is like you drinking poison and hoping the one you are angry at will die.  Being angry at another really only kills you.