Give Us the Strength
What exactly is temptation? Is it when someone in front of you drops a $100 bill and you question whether you should alert them? Is it being told you can leave work early at 5:40 but you sign out for 6:00 on your timesheet? What about if the cashier at the grocery store gives you too much change back and you don’t bother to tell her?
Temptation is all around us. It is recorded in the Bible that Eve was tempted. Our eyes become big with excitement about what we could potentially gain. Sometimes we don’t think things through or consider the consequences. Every incident doesn’t come with consequences. However you will be left with your conscious. Having integrity is doing the right thing even if no one is around.
Resisting temptation may prove difficult. The people you surround yourself with could either encourage you to succumb to temptation or resist it. Doing the right thing may not be the popular choice. Giving in to temptation may cause guilt later. Standing for what’s right is honorable. Be willing to stand out and stand up. James 4: 7 reminds us to resist the devil and he will flee from you.
Overcoming temptation is the ultimate goal. Since you may be tempted daily, you must strive daily to overcome it. Looking at the big picture will help you focus on your goal. Remind yourself that anything worth having is worth working for. Stay positive and remember that you can do all things through Christ which strengthens you.