7. How can we protect the figurative heart?

⁷ How can we counteract corrosion of the heart? By studying God’s Word diligently, letting its truths sink into our minds and hearts. (Romans 12:1, 2) Of course, we should attend Christian meetings regularly. (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Passively attending meetings could be likened to painting over a rust spot. This may brighten us for a while, but it does not solve the underlying problem. Instead, by advance preparation, meditation, and active participation in meetings, we can aggressively remove corrosive elements that may linger in the recesses of our figurative heart. This will help us to adhere to God’s Word and will strengthen us to endure tests of faith and become “sound in all respects.”—James 1:3, 4; Proverbs 15:28.

Warning Against Fornication

8-10. (a) What warning example is referred to at 1 Corinthians 10:8? (b) How can Jesus’ words found at Matthew 5:27, 28 be applied beneficially?

⁸ In Paul’s next example, we are counseled: “Neither let us practice fornication, as some of them committed fornication, only to fall, twenty-three thousand of them in one day.”a (1 Corinthians 10:8) The apostle was referring to the time when the Israelites bowed down to false gods and had “immoral relations with the daughters of Moab.” (Numbers 25:1-9) Sexual immorality is death dealing! Letting immoral thoughts and desires run rampant is like allowing a “rusting” of the heart. Jesus stated: “You heard that it was said, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”—Matthew 5:27, 28.

Even as rust needs to be removed, let us take positive action to remove improper desires from our hearts