Every day, every single one of us is faced with temptations. What tempts me may not tempt you and vice versa. But rest assured, the temptations are there. What exactly are temptations? They are desires to do something that is usually unwise. As wise as we humans can be, it’s not usually likely that we would fall prey to these desires. Yeah, right! I’m the first to admit that I can be pretty easily persuaded when it comes to certain things. “Go ahead,” I tell myself. “You deserve it!” Does that personal conversation sound familiar? If so, I’m glad you’re reading this. I’ve got good news!
The Bible says, “Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:2 NIV) I totally understand this but I’m in a hurry. Driving the speed limit is not going to work for me today. Yes, I know the scripture says, “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.” (Proverbs 18:21 NLT) But do you know how they treated me at that drive through window? They will get a piece of my mind! It’s totally worth it! Right? Well, not exactly. I’ve already let these situations steal my peace and joy. Why would I let these circumstances on the other side of God’s best for me take more? These are the small things that can cause big trouble. These seemingly “small” occurrences give the devil a foothold in our lives. Sin is sin! God’s not measuring disobedience with a ruler. It’s all wrong to Him and puts us in harm’s way because we have chosen to go against His law of protection and live in rebellion. That may sound a little harsh but the truth is the truth.
Sometimes we wonder why everything is blowing up in our lives. Stress and turmoil seem to be winning. Could it be that we’re falling prey to temptations we don’t even realize are hurting us? Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8 NLT). Even though He has paid the penalties for our sins on the cross, His standards are still the same. His rules to protect His children are still in place forever. The good news is, He wants to help you in your weak spots. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure (1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT). He’s so faithful! You just need to stay plugged into Him so your first instinct at the sign of temptation is to seek His will first. Let Him control your actions through His Spirit. He has already overcome, so learn from Him.
Yes, there was only One who was tempted in every way we are yet He did not fall prey to the temptations. He triumphed over them by nailing them to a cross and paid the penalty as though He deserved punishment for them. He took the penalty for us and gave us His righteousness in exchange so we can stand before judgment one day as though we lived the life of Jesus. Does this blow anyone’s mind other than mine? That’s not even fair, my finite mind proclaims! Fortunately, I don’t make the rules. Jesus loves you so much that He lived a perfect life for all of us imperfect people. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:13 NLT). Jesus is the best friend you’ll ever have. He offers so much more than any person ever could. If you’re considering anything that seems tempting, let me instruct you to consider the One temptation that is absolutely wise beyond your understanding. Jesus should look oh so tempting to you since He’s the only remedy for our human condition in this daily battle.
Today’s guest writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.
