I’ve known a number of people who, upon coming into a connection with Jesus, had their greatest temptation removed, instantly. Kind of cold turkey, but without the withdrawal issues. In my own life, that process has also occurred…once or twice. Seeing those who have gone cold turkey, we may expect that to be the norm. If so, might we unknowingly make ourselves more vulnerable with false expectations on temptation?
I took a sip
just a small one
just enough to test it
intrigued
enough to try another
just enough to determine what’s next
entranced
enough for a swallow
just enough to feel the pleasure
pleased
enough to try a gulp
just enough to smile
until the shame and guilt
pushed that smile away
embarrassed
enough to take only a swallow
not enough to resist the next
ashamed
enough to take only a sip
just enough to decrease the power of pleasure
guilty
one last sip
just enough to put it aside
Free at last, thank God Almighty, free at last
For most of us, most of the time, winning over sin is ongoing process, hopefully with progress, but without instant behavioral transformation. Salvation in part means “wholeness,” and the instant we accept Christ God sees us as whole. But as Paul said, “…our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11). That’s the process, making progress.
And in that process, we will often fall short, “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” 1 John 1:8).
Frankly, I can resist some temptations fairly well. Others require more time and work, Hebrews 12:1 calls it “the sin that clings so closely.”
So, a few steps on how we can best progress toward wholeness.
1 From 1 John, expect a battle and you won’t be surprised.
2 Craft a biblical strategy, “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” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
As I read this, we have three approaches. First, realize we’re not alone, others face our worst temptations. Second, for some temptations we have the spiritual strength to overcome it. So we choose to use it. Third, if it’s too strong, run. God will provide an escape route. Take it.
3 Abound in grace to yourself when you fail. That is nothing new, and we can recover, as I explored in the July 25 post on freedom. Very simply, we acknowledge and own it and ask forgiveness and move on. Feeling guilty after being forgiven is Satan’s tool.
4 Abound in grace to others who are also in the process and struggle. Be a comforter to them, not a convicter. Yes, confront at times for the purpose of restoration.
5 When you feel the strongest, be the most aware. “An unguarded strength is a double weakness.”
Kick Starting the Application
Think about some sins that continue to entangle you. Why do you suspect they have such power? Which is these five steps is the most difficult for you? Why? What is the best next step you can take?