By Doug Beyer, Atherton Resident since 2011
Jeremiah 1:13-15
If we are tempted by such trials, we must not say, “This temptation comes from God.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, and he himself tempts no one. But we are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires. Then our evil desires conceive and give birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Questions for reflection:
- What temptations am I likely to face today? Where do they come from?
- What is likely to happen if I yield to temptation?
Thought for today:
God is in charge of the outward circumstances of our lives. They are his gift to us. What we do with them is our gift to God. If anger or depression is your response to life’s difficulties, this is not God’s doing. Proverbs 19:3 warns: “A man’s own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the Lord.” A Chinese proverb says, “Sow a thought and reap a deed; sow a deed and reap a habit; sow a habit and reap a destiny.” James’ point is clear: to avoid the deadly string of consequences, deal with temptation at the first stage—desire. If you could kick the person responsible for most of your troubles, you wouldn’t be able to sit down for six months. Accept responsibility for your sins and mistakes today. Live free as God’s forgiven son or daughter.
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