Matthew 5:29-30
[29] If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. [30] And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.
Head: What does this passage say about how seriously we should take temptation and sin in our lives?
Heart: What are some things that you tend to be tempted about more than other things?
Hands: Are there things in your life that expose you to these temptations? What actions can you take to reduce or eliminate this temptation?
Verses 29-30 teach that if we find something in our lives that is tempting our hearts and causing us to sin, we should treat it seriously. This passage is not saying that we should cause physical harm to ourselves if we sin. Rather, it's an illustration that no matter how valuable something may seem to us, if it's causing us to wander from God or to rebel against Him, we should be willing to separate it from our lives.
What is there in your life that is inviting temptation and causing you to sin against God and others? Whatever it is, it is not worth it. Prayerfully seek God's guidance on how you should deal with it.
God takes sin seriously because sin is what initially broke the relationship between God and mankind, and can even affect our relationships with other people. Jesus loves you and invites you to abide in Him daily, to live while dwelling in Jesus. He also desires for the church to live in peace with others and to build each other up. So let's ask God to examine our hearts and to let us know if there is anything that may get in the way of our vertical and horizontal relationships.
>> Go to YG Seniors Devotions Main Page
Devotional Guide:
1) Pray for understanding in your mind, for trust in your heart, and for powerful obedience in your daily living.
2) Read the passage and mark anything that blesses you, challenges you, or raises a question.
3) Reflect on the passage. What's God saying about Himself? What's God saying about you?
4) Pray in response to what God puts on your heart through the Word.