Guarding Against Sexual Sin

Verse: Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matthew 5:27-28

Jesus has a way of getting right to the heart of the issue. While the religious leaders of the day were telling men that they shouldn't cheat on their wives, Jesus was saying you shouldn't even lust after a woman who is not your wife! Why? Because Jesus knows that the act of adultery starts in the heart and mind of the individuals involved. A man does not get up in the morning and decide to cheat on his wife. It starts by entertaining impure thoughts and cultivating them to the point that when given the opportunity it is incredibly hard to say "no'.

Our modern society makes it very difficult to go through the day without at least being attacked by one impure thought. Temptation is not a sin, giving in to temptation is. Do not allow yourself to be tricked by the enemy of your soul who says "you're only looking", but ask God for the strength to resist each impure thought.

Prayer: Dear Lord - Thank you for helping us to understand that evil actions start with evil thoughts. Please help us to guard our hearts and minds, and forgive us when we fail. Give us renewed strength each day to live as your children. In Jesus name - Amen.