Today's Scripture:
The only temptation that has come to you is that which everyone has. But you can trust God, who will not permit you to be tempted more than you can stand. But when you are tempted, he will also give you a way to escape so that you will be able to stand it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Many verses in the Bible ask you to do things that sound impossible. Love your enemies. Deal with your anger before the day ends (this has kept my wife & I best friends for over 22 years). Give generously, even to strangers. Don't regard the opposite sex with lust in your heart. Forgive those who've hurt you. A common response may be, "Nice sentiment, but this is the real world. You don't know what I'm up against." It is true the world is filled with temptations, enticements to take a self-centered approach toward pleasure and personal gain. But appearances are deceiving.
Any choice that leads you away from God leads you away from the life your heart truly longs for.
Trusting God is the antidote for making bad choices in life. You are not alone in your struggle. I write this from first hand experience so you can trust me when I tell you this...you are not alone and others have been where you are and come through, you will too. Everyone faces pressure, both internal and external, to make choices that dishonor God. Even Jesus was tempted in some ways you are. Yet Jesus put into practice the truth promised here. God faithfully provided an escape route from temptation, and Jesus took it.
You have the same opportunity for victory. Be on the lookout for God's escape route when temptations come your way. Your escape may come through the power of prayer, accountability with others, or avoiding situations that lead you away from God instead of toward him. Whatever the escape route, God has promised that you will have the ability to make the right choice.
Selah people and friends memorizing this verse in 1 Corinthians is a great way to become more aware of the temptations you face and of the God-given options you have to avoid surrendering to them.
"God's blessing be upon you as He reveals the way out of whatever the struggle you find yourself in as we close out 2008 and awake tomorrow with a new day and a new year in 2009. Join me as we make this the best year ever by placing ourselves in God's hands fully!"
Your pastor,
Rev Muston (PreacherPatrick)
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