We will always have troubles and temptations in this world. Jesus said “in this world you will have trouble.” John 16:33 (NIV) Moreover, the root of temptation is within us, for “each person is tempted when he is lured and tempted by his own desire.” James 1:14 (ESV) Troubles naturally become temptations because they tempt us to doubt and turn from following Jesus. Therefore, if we are having troubles then we know that a temptation is lurking. So we need to be on constant alert to know when a temptation has begun. We don’t need to be anxiously consumed with fear of temptations, but neither can we afford to neglect awareness. The enemy is always prowling around like a lion hoping to sink his teeth into us.
“if we are having troubles then we know that a temptation is lurking”
Since we can’t avoid temptations it is best to turn them to our advantage. Even when they seem overwhelming we can welcome them as God’s tools to humble and purify us. We can learn much about Christlike living. It seems that most of the great Christians of the past have been formed by troubles and the temptations that come with them. No matter who we are or where we are, we can be tempted, especially with unbelief or pride. We cannot escape temptations rather we must resist with endurance.
We can’t truly defeat temptations just with our own willpower. We must rely on God’s Spirit to continue to regenerate us. Otherwise, we won’t kill the root of the temptation. Instead, we must patiently resist and depend on God to transform us. We should also find someone we can confide in who will encourage us. Later, we can also encourage others who are tempted in the same way.
You can view part two of this post here.
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Today’s post is an interpretation of a chapter of the most popular devotional book in the history of Christianity, The Imitation of Christ. It is a profound explanation of spiritual formation. It was written by a monk (or possibly several monks) in the 15th century named Thomas a Kempis. You can view all the posts in this series by selecting “Imitation of Christ” in the categories listing.
