Finding Freedom from Life’s Temptations
The Universality of Temptation
Life is full of temptations, and it’s easy to feel like we’re the only ones struggling. But the truth is, everyone faces similar challenges. As the apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “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.”
A Chance Encounter
I still remember the day I drove through a small town in southwestern British Columbia and stumbled upon a clothing store called Temptations. The irony wasn’t lost on me, especially when I saw the huge white banners in the show windows proclaiming, “DOORS CLOSING.” It got me thinking about what it would be like if we could shut the door on all our temptations – no more struggles with overindulgence, lust, greed, jealousy, or selfishness.
The Battle Within
As Christians, we’re all too familiar with the internal struggle between our spiritual and sinful natures. Galatians 5:16-18 puts it succinctly: “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves… These two forces are constantly fighting each other.” It’s a daily battle, but one that we don’t have to fight alone.
The Power of the Holy Spirit
When we let the Holy Spirit guide our lives, He provides a way of escape from temptations. It’s a promise we can cling to, and one that brings hope and freedom. As we navigate life’s challenges, may we remember to surrender to His direction, trusting that He will empower us to resist temptation.
A Prayer for Guidance
Father, thank You for giving us a way of escape from the temptations that face us daily. Enable us to remember to allow You to direct our lives, so we don’t have to yield to temptations. Amen.
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