QUEST Fall Semester 2011 Entry #21: "Fighting Temptations"

As you journey through this Fall semester, you will find that many things may compete for your attention and focus. Unfortunately, some areas that call for our attention may not be for our edification. It could actually be used for our destruction. In the book of James, the following scripture speaks to this explicitly:

"But each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed." - James 1:14

Due to our own evil or unholy desires, we find ourselves involved in activities, thoughts, actions and behavior not befitting of a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. If we are not careful, these one-time temptations become habitual patterns that bound us to a life of sin. These habitual patterns begin to define how we live our lives, interact with others and view ourselves. It was never the heart of God to see His children chained to sin. In fact, Scripture warns us:

Matthew 26:41 - "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."

If our prayer lives are not where they should be, we will notice a greater desire to sin and a propensity to keep sinning without a repentant heart. We begin to justify our behavior and become increasingly angry with others who keep us accountable and in love, get in our faces with our stuff. Whatever the temptation may be: greed, cursing, fornication, sex outside of marriage, drugs, drunkenness, masturbation, pornography, stealing, lying, cheating, laziness...we find ourselves trying in our own strength, to fight temptations. But, here is the good news:

1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

Thank God for a way out! He provides a way out! The question is are we seeking THE WAY for the way? You cannot fight temptations by yourself. You cannot do it in your own strength. Whatever you are facing right now that is knocking on your door, remember: THE WAY provides a WAY OUT! Temptation only enters when you answer the door.
 
Blog Entry by:
Ryan Faison (QUEST/YAM Director)