Pilate and Herod found Jesus innocent Luke 23:13-17 (New Living Translation)  13 Then Pilate called together the leading priests and other religious leaders, along with the people, 14 and he announced his verdict. “You brought this man to me, accusing him of leading a revolt. I have examined him thoroughly on this point in your presence and find him innocent. 15 Herod came to the same conclusion and sent him back to us. Nothing this man has done calls for the death penalty. 16 So I will have him flogged, and then I will release him.” Jesus was innocent.  Even Pilot and Herod (who were about as far away from God as a soul could get) could see that Jesus was innocent.  So what happened to the religious leaders?  They were blinded by rage, envy, and jealousy. Before we get too self-righteous, we must ask ourselves, “Have I ever let myself be blinded by rage, envy, jealousy?”  What about fear, prejudice, grief, greed… 2 Timothy 1:7 (New Living Translation) 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. James 1:19-20 (New Living Translation)  19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. The Scriptures repeatedly admonish us to exercise self-control and self-discipline in every area of our lives. When we give into our feelings and allow them to rule our actions, we are no different than the unbelievers that we wish to reach for Jesus.  We bring shame to the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  How do we get better at the self-discipline?  By making godly choices.  By allowing the Holy Spirit to rule our actions.  By learning to Respond rather than reacting to situations. Pray for me as I pray for you. In His Name, Lisa