So, I've come to a rather startling conclusion. My eyes are wild animals. The last several months God has been working in my life like He never has before. He has brought fairly radical transformation in my thought processes, opinions and even actions. Much of the rough edges in my life have been rubbed off by the sand paper of His grace. Especially since coming back from Pine Cove on July 8th, the transformation has been in overdrive. My body, my hands, my mind, almost all that I am has fallen completely under God's dominion. I realized last night, that regardless of where the rest of my life is at, my eyes are still as untamed and wild as ever. Several friends and I were working out at the stadium last night. There were some women I know on the field with us as well. Several times I caught my eyes gazing in their direction, which is something I have fervently been trying to control. I know that the eyes are the fuel that runs the lust engine, and that if I can keep my eyes where they belong then it will be much easier to keep my mind in line.
I find it extremely frustrating that my eyes can't seem to take a hint. My body belongs to Christ and my future wife, no one else. I have no problem at all controlling myself physically because I love my future wife far too much to take anything away from her. My heart belongs to Christ first and foremost, whatever else is left belongs to "the one". I have no problem closing off my emotion and heart from any girl because Christ and "the one" mean infinitely more to me than any other female on planet Earth.
My eyes are starving lions wandering the savannahs of Africa looking for something to devour. I am disgusted sometimes with the thoughts that seem to appear from nowhere in my mind. It serves as a stark reminder that I am a fallen man, and that all that is good in me is Christ. The only saving grace is that I desperately want to honor and glorify my Savior with the behavior of my eyes. The "neck up" policy I made in the spring goes a long way towards consistently respecting the women who cross my path. Praise God for giving me this constant reminder of why it is so important to remain close to Him. That's the only way to consistently tame the animal of my eyes. Sad but true.
With the strength of Christ, it is possible to remain pure with my eyes. "Flee temptation" takes on a whole new meaning when temptation is wearing a short skirt and walking right in front of you. I don't think this is something women fully understand. Perhaps, they do understand and yet continue to dress and act in ways that only make the problem worse. What a terrible realization that would be...
Ladies: Be mindful of the men in your life and those that cross your path daily. This is something we all struggle with. You can help us out by being the ladies God has called you to be. Modesty is a beautiful thing. Encourage and pray for the guys in your life, that we would raise the standard and live lives of excellence and purity.
Men: Purity of the eyes is not a simple goal that you achieve once and that's it. It is a daily struggle you will face for the rest of your days. Your future wife and your God demand that you remain true to them. It is never too late to begin this fight. The women in your life will appreciate it.
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