Getting sin out of your life is a serious thing ~ Mike MacIntosh

If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go to hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched--where "Their worm does not die, And the fire is not quenched."

And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame, rather than having two feet, to be cast into hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched--where "Their worm does not die, And the fire is not quenched."

And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes, to be cast into hell fire--where "Their worm does not die, And the fire is not quenched."
Mark 9:43-48

Getting sin out of your life is a serious thing. The metaphors used in these verses are astounding and speak loudly at the sinful condition of man. Jesus isn't telling anyone to cut off their limbs. In fact, the metaphor is even worse than that; we all must cease and desist from our sinful ways. Think about it: if we could actually get rid of our sin by cutting off our arm, I think many of us would do it. As difficult as that would be, the benefits of having no more sin would be pretty amazing. But Jesus doesn't say that. Letting go of sin must be a daily activity; it's difficult and trying. To live by faith and to walk in the Spirit is a daily lifestyle of the believer. It's simple and focused, but nobody said it would be easy.

Jesus uses three metaphors to illustrate. First, He said to watch what you do with your hands. What sinful things do you gravitate toward and pick up? Magazines? The remote? Inappropriate touching? Jesus is saying, "Enough!" Stop touching those things that are causing you to sin. Use your hands for God's work and for worshipping Him. Take David's advice: "I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name."

Second, Jesus said to watch out where you walk because your feet will lead you to trouble. Now we all know that it isn't the feet that are the problem. It's our heart and our mind. When we have thoughts toward evil, we must walk away! Focus your thoughts on Him and His desires for your life. Romans 10:15 says, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace." You see, God wants us to have beautiful feet. When you start to feel a tug towards the wrong, sinful direction, start talking about Jesus. He is the only One who can help. And get your feet to church on Sundays and midweek. Be filled with the knowledge of His will for your life.

And lastly, Jesus said to be careful what we look at. The people-watching, the ads, and the little looks here and there are all indicative of your heart's desires. Be in a place where your eyes aren't looking at things they weren't created for. Psalm 19:8 says that, "The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes." Keep your eyes focused on Him. Keep your eyes in the Word of God. There you will find joy, satisfaction, and peace.

It's never easy to cut sin out of our lives. (It's probably why we all hang on to it so long.) Be decisive and take action. Jesus has so much more for you. Allow the Holy Spirit to help you overcome those areas in your life that need to be removed. And be assured, when you ask, things will change!