The Test of Temptation

The test of temptation determines if specific values will be abandoned for what appears delightful. The enticement draws you to what is forbidden and taunts you to conform to its captivating image. Resisting becomes difficult as soon as you allow your mind to concoct every possible argument for giving in.

Deceptive reasoning insists, “I am smart and will turn back if I decide this is out of bounds." The cutting edge of temptation deceives your mind and heart by grasping for what promises to fill the gap that separates you from God. We often refuse to accept what God provides by perceiving it as deficient and unrewarding.

While resisting temptation is difficult, it is a frontline defense against its power. Another way of resisting temptation is with an accountability partner. Ecclesiastes 4:12 confirms, "Although one may be overpowered, two plus God can prevail. A cord of three strands is not easily broken." 

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“Come to me, all of you who are weary and over-burdened, and I will give you rest! Put on my yoke and learn from me. For I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

~Matthew 11:28-30 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

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Stressed-out Family? Seek Constructive Change - Part 3

One of the most exciting opportunities that come our way is choosing to live our lives differently from what we've done in the past. An opportunity may suddenly appear, and we have a chance to inaugurate a change. To let an opportunity pass without giving it consideration would be like turning your back on the chance of a lifetime.

Recognizing how to change is good insight, which is the key to transformation. I had a conversation with someone who had a terrible fight with her adult brother. This fight could have caused long-lasting alienation, but she decided to call her brother and apologize for her part in the conflict. This was her opportunity to choose reconciliation rather than alienation.

Everyone is capable of attitudes that destroy trust, which is needed for every aspect of life. Poisoning trust can be subtle, but destructive. Is this the time to redirect how you can be as a person? Micah 6:8 puts it this way, "What does the Lord require of you, but act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."