“My bretheren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But, let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” James 1: 2-4
Today’s Christian Daily Devotional
Temptation has always had a negative connotation. But, as James 1:2-4 brings to light, it can actually be a good thing. For example: as much as I loathe going to the gym, I do it anyway. I like the investment in my health and the lift it gives my spirits when I have accomplished the goal I have put my mind to. If working out were easy, the reward would be far less gratifying. So, although it hurts (and is not always fun), if I stick with my workout program, I will see results and all the pain and inconvience is worth it in the end. Temptation works the same way. We may see it as a stumbling block. But, in the spiritual world, it is obstacle course that we must become stealth at moving around. If we build our “spiritual muscles” and continue to lean on God when life presents challenging times and situations, we will become a more efficient soldier for God. It takes a partnership with God, obeying His word, commitment when things get hard and a determined attitude to build the character that will be a good witness to the world. So many Christians make God look bad because they don’t endure the pain of growing in their spirits. Don’t get lazy and think that prayer will fix it all. Prayer works, but to get successful results, it also takes work on your part. Pay attention and take note of what your particular temptations are, and do everything to avoid falling into the habits that could stop you from letting the light of God shine through you. God is counting on you. The world cannot see Him. They only experience God through the lives and examples of His followers. Are you making God look ugly?
“Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for temptation. I never thought I would say that, but I realize that it is actually a tool to make me stronger in the spirit. For years I have indulged in my weaknesses, using the excuse that everybody has their demons. I will not accept that lazy mentality. I can change if I WANT to change, and if I work with you, I will. Today is the day for dropping my excuses. I will not fall into the traps I have in my past. I know my weaknesses, and that will give me the wisdom of what to pray against. Lord, help me to remember that I am not fighting this fight alone. Help me to lean on you when I get weak. Help me to find a good friend, with my best interest in mind, to pray in agreement with me against my struggles; as I will pray for them against theirs. Thank you Lord for showing how spiritually lazy I have become. I am ready to quit it, and get fit! In Jesus’ precious name, take my hand, lead me away from my temptations and deliver me from my own weaknesses, Amen.”