TODAY’S WORD FOR FRIDAY MARCH 24, 2017.
TEMPTATION
DEFINITION:
The act of tempting; enticement or allurement.
Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. James 1:13.
Every day we face issues of temptation. We need to learn that before we say “yes” to any temptation that comes our way, we need to ask ourselves several questions.
First, we need to ask ourselves what is the source of this offer? Remember what the verse we have put above says. “God cannot be tempted by evil” and He does not tempt anyone. Any temptation that veers away from truth and righteousness is from the devil. Focus on the Lord and the Biblical principles and you will know how to respond to temptations.
Secondly, what are the requirements to accept the temptation offer? Yielding to temptations requires that we compromise away from our spiritual convictions. Sin is expensive because it cost us our honesty and integrity.
Thirdly, we need to ask ourselves what are the consequences of accepting this temptation? Think beyond the present, which always seems to be exciting and positive. Instead think of the long-term consequences. The satisfaction of the moment is never worth the pain and guilt that follows.
There are reasons that people hesitate to say NO to temptation. There is a fear of rejection. Being rejected by a friend because of our convictions shows something good about us. It shows that we have a strong relationship with the Lord and a friend in the long run will recognize this.
There is also the fear of losing a relationship. Any time we give up relationship in order to remain obedient to God, we are putting ourselves in a position to be blessed of God.
There are other reasons that people hesitate to say no to temptation. These include a fear of losing finances, a fear of losing a wanted opportunity, or a fear of the loss of our self-image.
There are sources to give us courage to say no and obey God. These include the promises found in God’s Word. The strength that comes through our communication with God in prayer and the conviction the Holy Spirit puts in our hearts as we read God’s Word.
Sin is a choice. Sin separates us from God. When we choose to sin, we must realize the serious consequences of that choice. The reality is that we are choosing death instead of a relationship with God for all eternity.
Finally, always remember that the Holy Spirit is the one who empowers us to resist temptation and to obey God.
Our memory verse for this week is found in I John 1:9.
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Give me the fortitude to move away from all temptations that I may face today. May Your Holy Spirit guide and lead me to a life that honors You every moment of this day.
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