A State of Affairs
Pandemic: “Occurring over a wide geographic area and affecting an exceptionally high proportion of the population.”
Have extra-marital reached pandemic proportions? Is this silent killer the 10,000 pound gorilla in the room that doesn’t get discussed? Do our pastors feel the liberty to preach and teach openly about God’s truths relating to affairs? Is there a forum for dialogue anywhere? I certainly don’t have all the answers but it seems like the problem may be getting worse rather than better.
So where does one start? I believe the first place to start is with what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:27-30) “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
A seminary professor friend of mine explains affairs this way, “Sin will make you stupid.” I think that is a simple yet very profound truth. It also explains the challenge of trying to understand how somebody could put themselves in the mouth of this “roaring lion.” There is absolutely no secret as to the devastation that affairs have on relationships. Their results are far reaching and impact so many other’s lives. Later generations still often feel the consequences in various forms. Lives are put through utter hell because of affairs. And yet, we have possibly reached pandemic proportions? How does that make sense?
Solomon writes in Proverbs 5 about the wisdom from above that is so pointed. He writes, “Do not go near the door of her house.” He adds, “Drink water from your own cistern and running water from your own well. Rejoice with the wife of your youth.” I think that means to be madly in love with your spouse. Such wise words are given on affair prevention. And yet, all the “fun weekend” trips to Destin, the guys trips to Vegas and it’s invitation of “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” (Don’t see that one in Proverbs), the out of town “business trip,” or the affair that has been going on for years and has resulted in the hell of deception, still continue.
Why? Maybe that is what needs to be discussed. Solomon gives great advice so maybe it’s the accountability that is missing? Are the tough questions being asked? Are we letting people in our lives who will ask the tough questions? Maybe there is a friend of yours who is getting dangerously close to this roaring lion. Save them from being devoured from the lion!
As we celebrate Valentines Day, be reminded of the model of love that we have in Jesus Christ. Let his example guide all thoughts and actions, and let Him continue to transform every area of life.
