Get Rid of the Excuses

“If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off….”
–Jesus (read Mark 9:42-48 for full passage)

This is a pretty big command. If part of you cause yo to sin, get rid of it. I don’t know about you, but I’d have a pretty hard time cutting off my own hand. But it’s what Jesus told us to do. So, why don’t we see more people without eyes or hands?

The thing about it is this: Your hand doesn’t cause you to sin, it’s your heart. The sinful nature, or flesh, is what causes us to sin. The hand is just the accessory to the crime. And we tend to blame the crime on the accessory. “My hand just did it” or “My eyes just looked at that girl inappropriately.” We don’t take responsibility for our sin.

By talking about cutting off a hand or eye, one thing Jesus is telling us to get rid of the excuses. Jobs, friends, video games, and other things tend to be our excuses for sin in our lives. Get rid of the excuse! Ask God for help and the Holy Spirit will help you overcome your temptations and sin.

What excuses do you need to get rid of today?