What Comes Out of a Man
Scott Card
2003

Jesus says, "There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man." (Mark 7:15-23)…
Being exposed to unrighteousness does not make one unrighteous. Being exposed to temptation is not a sin. We are judged by our actions because we act according to what is in our hearts. It is what has gone beyond exposure and temptation and has been allowed to take root within us that dictates our conduct. "Wherefore, by their fruits you shall know them." (Matt. 7:16-20).

Jesus said to him, "He that is washed needs not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit:" (John 13:10a). It is impossible to walk through this life without being exposed to every kind of evil. Temptation is not a sin. Being exposed to the world's fallen evil ways is not sin. But these things can weigh us down over a short time. It is easy to get tired, discouraged. Without the regular devotion of time spent with the Lord and in His word we would become weakened in our spiritual immunity to such evil. The Lord's example of washing one another's feet shows us how we, as brothers and sisters in Him, must be faithful to refresh and reaffirm one another in our steadfastness in Christ in the midst of a degenerate world. A kind word or deed, time spent with, or even a prayer unselfishly spent on another's needs can wash away the dirt from the feet of a fellow traveller who might be feeling weighed down with the burdens of this world.

"And be not conformed to this world: but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (Romans 12:2).

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