JESUS SPEAKING

“If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter life lame or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire.” (Matthew 18: 8)

FAITHFUL THOUGHTS

According to Jesus, we are to avoid sin at all costs. He goes even further, suggesting that we should also abandon anything that might lead us into temptation or cause us to sin. For example, if someone becomes a Christian and has a history of drunken (alcoholic) behavior, they should rid their houses of liquor and avoid hanging out in bars; they would also be wise to make new friends and abandon their old drinking buddies.

Many years ago, after becoming a Christian, I made the decision to only use my laptop at coffee shops and other public places where anyone who walked by could see what I was viewing on my screen. This accountability helped me to avoid watching anything inappropriate on my laptop. Although I no longer struggle with that form of temptation, for a time, avoiding isolated computer use served me well.

As Christians, we must strive to be as perfect in our deeds as our Lord and savior Jesus Christ is. Although we cannot attain sinless perfection (for which there is grace), we are still called to avoid sin and anything else that might lead us into temptation. No matter our situation, with God’s help, we can all do better.

“Lord Heavenly Father, give us the strength and courage to avoid those things that are sinful or tempting. May our lives be committed to purity and goodness. Grant us the wisdom to recognize those areas of our lives where change is necessary. Without You we are lost, but with You we have all hope. We love You Father, praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!