Nip it in the bud

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

The Law said ‘you shall not commit adultery.’ That’s pretty clear. It doesn’t take much discussion. Adultery, being unfaithful to your spouse, is sin.’ I think most Christians could fairly say ‘I have never cheated on my spouse.’ I think we mostly take out marriage vows seriously.

But this is a bit like the murder we looked at recently.

Jesus said refraining from the physical act of adultery was not enough. ‘Whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.’

That’s a pretty strict standard. It’s the reason we are told to keep our hearts with all keeping, for out of it are the issues of life. We can’t afford to let lust takes its place in our hearts. Instead of letting it grow and fester there it is imperative that we nip it in the bud before it takes root and bears its ugly fruit in our lives.

With all of the visual stimulus around us it is easy enough to let lust take root. Our flesh likes it and it is easily accessible. We must be constantly on guard against it. It is nothing to take lightly or play games with.

Nip it in the bud.