August 31

Today’s Reading - Matthew 5:27-28

Thought:

Adultery begins in the heart. The point of this and most of what Jesus says in this part of the Sermon on the Mount is that sin of any kind finds its origins in the heart and mind. Before we do the act, we think the thought, we have the desire. The real lesson to be learned from Jesus’ teaching here is that, if we desire to keep our lives and bodies pure from sin, we must first harness our eyes and minds and hearts. The body will not go where the eyes and minds do not lead. We cannot allow our eyes and minds to wander into the territory of sin and then expect our actions to stay close to God. Having a heart that is pure and fully committed to God is the first and best defense that we have against temptation and sin. May God help us to love Him more and sin less.

What are some ways that Christians can help to keep their hearts pure?