Day 3: Jesus on Adultery

MAIN SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:27-28 (NLT) 27 “You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

DEVOTIONAL:

Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, challenges us to consider not just our outward actions but also the inner workings of our hearts. He explains that even entertaining lustful thoughts is like committing adultery in one's heart.

In today's digital age, this teaching is particularly relevant when discussing issues such as pornography and masturbation. Pornography often objectifies individuals and can lead to a distorted understanding of sex, reducing it to a self-serving act rather than a sacred union. Masturbation diverts our understanding of sex from its God-intended design.

Therefore, as followers of Christ, it is imperative to abstain from pornography and masturbation, preserving the sacredness of sexual relations as intended by the Creator. These acts are considered sinful and should be steered clear of in order to maintain sexual purity.

Jesus calls us to a higher standard, urging us to treat every person with dignity and respect. By guarding our minds against lustful thoughts, including those provoked by pornography, we honour God's design for sex and relationships. We are encouraged to seek purity in both thought and action, aligning our desires with God's plan for love and intimacy.

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, thank You for valuing not just our actions but also our hearts. Help us to guard our minds against lustful thoughts, including those brought on by pornography and masturbation. Guide us to seek purity and to honour Your design for sex and relationships. Strengthen us to live lives of integrity and authenticity that glorify You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.