One of the more controversial hyperbole offered by Jesus in his recorded “sermon on the mount” is the concept that if a part of your life is causing you to do bad things, then remove it. He teaches that it is better to remove that part of your life then to potentially expose yourself to greater consequence in your life later.
Jesus was a radical in a sense. He literally told people – if your right eye offends you, then pluck it out. He told the people it is better that one member suffer then the entire body be faced with ruin. Pluck it out. Not a teaching of mediocrity, not a teaching of balance, moderation, temperance – the teaching was pluck it out.
Get rid of it, remove it, embrace the suck. If there is a part of your life preventing you from achieving your truest, noblest ambitions then eliminate it. Do not let a small thing get in your way and prevent you from your capabilities, from serving others because you are distracted or held hostage by a part of your life.
I think we all know exactly what Jesus was referring to. We just do not want to admit it. We all have a vise, temptations, things we do that we know are hampering or hurting us. However, because of the enjoyment, temporary satisfaction, the respite provided by this part of our life we hold on to it – despite the knowledge that it is in our way. The advice from the greatest life coach that every lived – pluck it out.
I am contemplating as part of my 365 commitment this morning – is there a part of my life that is in my way, causing me turmoil or pain, or needless concern? I am going to follow this advise, I am going to resolve to pluck it out.
Guy Reams (139)
365 Member
