The Slow Extraction Option

As the patient sat down in the dentist’s chair complaining of his aching tooth, he asked, “Doc, how long will it take to pull this thing?” “Oh, don’t worry,” said the dentist. “I can have it out in less than ten minutes.” “And how much is this going to cost?” the patient asked. “A tooth extraction is about $150,” the dentist answered. “$150 for ten minutes work?” the patient said. “That’s a bit steep, isn’t it?” The dentist replied, “Well, I can extract it very slowly if you’d prefer.”*

Rooting out persistent sin in our lives can be a difficult process. Old habits, especially sinful ones, die hard. Like any addiction, it can be hard to kick the habit. But that is the task to which we are called as disciples of Christ.  With reference to our sinful practices, we are to “...lay aside the old self…” (Ephesians 4.22).  We are to “...put them all aside…” (Colossians 3:8-9; cf. James 1:21; 1 Peter 2:1). In even stronger language, those who belong to Christ are called to “...crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:24).

That can be tough. Due to the difficulty involved as well as our attachment to sinful pleasures, sometimes we opt for the slow extraction option.  But giving up sin gradually is dangerous. One thing it does is give the devil extra opportunities to entrap us in his webs of deceit (Ephesians 4:27; 2 Corinthians 2:11). Believe me, he doesn’t need the help or encouragement! Not dealing decisively with sin is like intentionally leaving a stumbling block in our path. Jesus vividly advocated for not messing around with things that can trip us up (Matthew 18:8–9).

Sin is not to be trifled with. “But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death” (James 1:14–15). Don’t choose slow extraction.

God loves you!

Mike

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