Thoughts From a Random Mind

STARING IN THE FACE OF TEMPTATION

            There are a myriad of temptations that surround us daily. They stare us down in the attempt to break us. It is the person that is well grounded in the word of God that wins these battles and they are indeed battles. Just because we give our lives over to Christ doesn’t mean the enemy won’t attempt to ram a stick in the spoke of our wheel as we cruise thru life. Those that see the temptation for what it is and don’t succumb to the lure of it will remain strong, but it is very difficult at times to ward off the flaming arrows that come at us. 

            When a believer in Christ gives in to temptation there is typically an immediate feeling of guilt and remorse. You realize in an instant that you’ve betrayed God and others very important to you. God can forgive you for such transgressions, but the feeling of shame always lingers in the deeper recesses of your mind. The enemy pulls that card out at inopportune moments to knock you down. It impedes any progress you are making in your walk with the Lord. It puts a dent in your personal integrity. It makes trusting you just a little bit more difficult or perhaps impossible depending on which relationship is in play. 

        Falling to temptation is a selfish act that benefits no one; not even you. The raging consequences that follow burn bridges that you may have wanted to cross again. It’s a losing proposition. How do I know, I went down a rabbit trail or two that I never should have gone down. I hurt others dear to me and I hurt myself. Frankly, it is only the grace of God that has brought me to where I now stand. Because of HIS grace I am no longer defined by my past mistakes. God still wanted to use me and he is.

           If this message resembles your life, understand this … once forgiven by God you aren’t defined by yourpast either. It’s a lot easier to be humble when you know how many times you’ve failed and who now holds you up. Don’t beat yourself up, seek forgiveness from God and others and move on with the help of the Holy Spirit. You are not a failure. You aren’t a loser. You’re human and you didn’t listen when the Lord said NO. Face the only one who loves you without condition and know that you are of incalculable value to him. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!rlkeller