TRIALS vs. TEMPTATIONS

Did you know there is a clear distinction between a trial and temptation?

Trials are either sent or allowed by God to bring about spiritual growth.

Temptations are sent by the enemy in an effort to trip up believers in Christ.

Always remember, a temptation isn’t a sin until it is acted upon.

            Ephesians 4:17-24  “With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused.  Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him.  They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity. But that isn’t what you learned about Christ.  Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.  Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.”

            2 Timothy 1:7  “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

            Titus 1:8 “Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.”

            Romans 12:1-2  “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

            Having Godly self-control is something to prayerfully seek. God wishes you to be successful in this regard because to not have self-control opens the door to ungodliness. Trials may be painful but the difference between trials and temptations is that God watches over our trials orchestrating them so we achieve the greatest benefit. Turn and run from temptation, especially sexual temptation, for any fun or satisfaction gleaned from such temptations will be short lived and will damage your personal integrity. Without positive integrity you will lose the trust of your peers and loved ones. Integrity lost is extremely difficult to earn back.  Pray the Lord’s will for your life is manifest a little more each day. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing! rlkeller