Devotional
Jesus had a way of taking what seemed like straightforward commandments and revealing their deeper implications. When addressing adultery, He shifted the focus from merely external behavior to the condition of our hearts. Looking with lustful intent, Jesus taught, already violates the spirit of the commandment. This teaching isn’t meant to condemn us but to show us how seriously God takes purity—it’s not just about our actions but about our thoughts and desires as well. Jesus’ words remind us that sexual sin begins long before physical actions occur. It starts with what we allow our minds to dwell on, what we feed our thoughts with, and what we permit our hearts to desire. The radical solution Jesus proposes—metaphorically cutting off a hand or plucking out an eye—underscores the seriousness of this matter. While not meant literally, it emphasizes that maintaining purity may require drastic measures and difficult choices about what we expose ourselves to. Today, consider what steps you might need to take to guard your heart and mind. What influences, habits, or relationships might you need to limit or eliminate to protect your purity?
Bible Verse
“But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28
Reflection Question
What specific boundaries or practices could you implement to better guard your heart and mind against impure thoughts?
Quote
Adultery is a sin that is so poisonous that if you don’t do what you have to do to deal with it, it’s going to destroy you.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, search my heart and reveal any impure thoughts or desires that I’ve been harboring. Give me the courage to take whatever steps are necessary to maintain purity in my thought life. Help me to see others as You see them—as bearers of Your image worthy of respect. Amen.