Temptation

In the west, we live in a land of excess and worldly temptation. With instant access to most anything we might want and a consumerism culture that tells us we need more, we are rarely satisfied if we look to worldly things to satisfy us.  A shift of perspective to focus on what’s truly important demonstrates the maturity of our souls. As spiritual beings living a human life, we are surrounded by the opportunity for growth if we live intentionally.

For example, the more I want to run away from not caring for my body, I’m learning I can’t do it by sheer will. This is a weakness for me. I can use any excuse to give up exercise, eat beyond being full or drinking that additional glass of wine. My attitude of “I can do what I want” takes over and unchecked, it grows and grows. As does the weight on the scale, the plaque in my arteries and other health deterioration. I’m finding that it is only through patience and humility, along with God’s grace, I can have success. I must root out what is causing my attitude that it is OK to lose and gain weight over and over again.  

Gold is tried by fire and we are refined by temptation. Often we do not know what we can do until temptation shows us what we are. After all, this is how temptation enters in:  first we have a thought, followed by strong imaginings, then the pleasure and evil emotions, and finally consent. This is how we let the enemy in because he was not resisted at the outset. The slower we are to resist, the weaker we become and the stronger the enemy is against us.

Lord, thank you for showing me that my stubborn willfulness tempts me and keeps me from what my heart truly desires.