A Lesson to Avoid Adultery

“If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.”    
Matthew 5:29-30 (NIV)              

Did you know that this one verse has power to protect you?

Jesus’ words in these verses make it clear that when it comes to temptation and sin, you must take bold action. But you don’t face this responsibility alone. Jesus gives you the keys to wisdom and protection.

In the preceding verses, Jesus equated lust with adultery, making it clear that lust is a deadly offense. In these verses, Jesus stresses that lust is serious enough to take action on immediately. But His words in this verse are not to be taken literally. 

In Jewish culture, the right hand or eye represents power and strength. What Jesus is saying is that even at your strongest, you can be vulnerable. He asks you to take immediate action so that you do not face deadly consequences.

You may think this doesn’t apply to you, but don’t be deceived–it does. You need to give up anything you have to, no matter what it is, in order to protect your heart, your body, your soul, your purity. And if it applies – your marriage.

The word for “stumble” in verse 29 is a word that was used to describe a bait stick that would spring a trap whenever an animal would touch it. The animal would get trapped. Jesus is saying that anything that might trap you or cause you to fall into sexual sin should be eliminated completely from your life.

Jesus uses a gross exaggeration to make a clear statement that whatever might be a stumbling block in your life, whatever could cause you to lust, must be eliminated. Go to someone, admit your struggle and get whatever help and accountability you need for support.

If you are viewing a TV series or movie which causes you to stumble, maybe reconsider your Netflix subscription. If you are looking at pornography, perhaps give your phone and computer passwords to a close friend. Ask them to regularly view your search history. Whatever you have to do to guard your heart and your mind, do it. 

And don’t be discouraged. You will be inundated with temptation to lust at multiple junctures each day. But you don’t need to pretend like the temptation is not there. Your God is able to help you stand firm.

Jesus commanded you to take action and He has empowered you to do it. You have the Spirit of God living within you. You have the Word of God that helps keep your eyes always focused on the One who never leads you into temptation, and delivers you from evil. 

Prayer: Father, I praise You for opening a way for me out of sin and death. Thank You for showing me how life works best and it is to sit and by Your Spirit, receive Your life-saving Word. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to You, Oh Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.