Temptation

1 Cor 10:12-13 James 1:13- 15

Before Christ came into our lives we satisfied our selfish desires and even legitimate needs apart from Him. This formed a pattern (Rom 7: 23-24) in the flesh. A pattern we remember as satisfying. Temptation conceived (James 1:12,13) is deciding to live independent of God. The more independent we become the more power temptation produces. The scriptures indicate that temptations come three ways. Lust of the flesh and lust of the eyes which tells us God can not supply our needs and that there is more to experience out there; and the pride of life which worships self not God. The way out (1 Cor 10: 13) has to be found here:

• total dependence on Him
• total Trust in Him
• total worship of Him

No matter how close we walk with the Lord temptations will come and there will be many times these temptations over take us. I've been a victim of these temptations often in my life and I am sure, as the verses in Romans seven indicate, they will over take me again. But I am encouraged. Why? Because I have lived through and suffered the result of sin conceived and found Christ on the other side.

Our sins and mistakes do not surprise God. He somehow takes all the evil thrown at us and produced through us and works it for good toward us; because we love Him (Romans 8:28.) We do reap what we sow but thanks be to God, through Jesus Christ (Rom 7: 25,) there is no condemnation (Romans 8: 1.) He has a plan. No matter how many times we fail, or mess it up we are never disqualified. He is faithful to bring us into true repentance and back to Himself.

Thank you Lord, once again for Your love and grace. We are truly helpless without You and Your plans for us. Help us all keep on track.