TEXT: James 1:14-15 NLT
"Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death."
TEMPTATIONS WILL COME
You will be tempted over and over again. These temptations arise from the desires in your heart. When you allow these desires to grow, opportunities will be availed by the chief examiner - Satan. Then the battle begins - in your heart. You begin to think about it, weighing the possibilities with little attention to the consequences. Satan arrives, whispering encouragements and twisting Bible verses to sway your mind. The Holy Spirit gently reminds you of God's standard. Your conscience tries to dissuade you. Satan begins to beat the drum of deceit more fervently, you begin to dance to the sweet melody and like a magnet, desire draws your heart to sin's abode. You fall into sin.
We have all passed through this route at one time or the other.
IT IS NOT SATAN'S FAULT
It is not Satan's fault when we fall into temptation. It is our inability to resist the devil. James 4:7b says: "... Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." We also deliberately ignore the way of escape God provides with every temptation that comes our way. 1 Cor10:13 tells us: "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." God will not allow you to face a temptation you cannot bear. Furthermore, the word of God has warned us sufficiently that temptation will come. We are fully aware of Satan's craftiness and evil devices, yet we succumb because we fail to watch and pray. Jesus warned all his disciples about this: "Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak" (Mark 14:38).
SIN KILLS
The case of David is a classic example of being drawn and enticed by the desires of our hearts. He fell so spectacularly that he did not even acknowledge his guilt until prophet Nathan accosted him. The mercy of God sought him even in his fallen state. Ananias and Sapphira were not so favoured. Sin stilled their heart beat. The mercy of God will avail for you in your time of need in Jesus name.
Several years ago, I entangled myself in a dangerous dance with sin. Like David, the lust of the flesh took hold of me. I danced until the last beat, I fell line, hook and sinker; but God stopped the music and drew me out of the well of fornication. God's hand of mercy pulled me out before I took the plunge. I am still alive today to tell the story. Many are not so lucky. They are either caught in the act or die in the process. Don't allow Satan to steal the joy of your salvation. Don't allow him to separate you from God's presence and destroy your life. The Lord will strengthen your spirit man in Jesus name.
RUN FOR YOUR LIFE
Sin kills, therefore abstain from all appearances of evil (1 These 5:22). Flee from fornication (1 Cor 6:18). Satan is still looking for people to devour, don't fall into his trap. Run like Joseph did and achieve your God ordained dreams. Plead for mercy like David and receive forgiveness from God. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us. The blood of Jesus cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:7,9).
"Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall" (1 Cor 10:12).
PRAYER:
Father, I come before your throne of grace, please have mercy on me. Forgive my sin and cleanse me with the blood of Jesus in Jesus name.
God bless you. Shalom.
