A Radical Operation for Lust

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 

1 Corinthians 10:13 

Some people find our Lord’s approach to lust unnecessarily harsh. Jesus says, “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away… If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away” (Matthew 5:29-30). He’s not being literal here, but we get the idea.  

When it comes to lust, Jesus prescribes a severe, even radical operation. In other words, this is nothing to coddle or play with—just as one would not play with a venomous snake. If we don’t deal severely with lust, then a glance becomes a gaze. A thought becomes an action. A casual fantasy becomes heartbreak and a nightmare.  

So, yes, be harsh with such inclinations. Walk away. Avert your gaze. Leave the movie. Turn off your computer. These actions will result in God’s blessing—and spare you years of regret. 

Thank You, Lord, for Your promise in 1 Corinthians 10:13. You will never allow me to be tempted beyond my ability to resist, and You will always provide a way of escape from every trap and snare of the evil one. Help me to quickly derail any train of thought that grieves Your Holy Spirit!