The Excuse Buster!

Temptation takes on many forms, but we often focus on food. We ask the Lord for deliverance from candy and cookies. We think if He could create the world by merely speaking it into existence, that surely He can make carrot cake a vegetable! But, in reality, when temptation comes knocking, it is often disguised in activities that don’t seem harmful. Have you ever gone to the mall and engaged in a little retail therapy? How about the appointments on your calendar? Is your quiet time a thing of the past? Are others stressing you out and you have turned to watching a movie rather than exercising? The Lord allows temptations to come our way as opportunities to put this verse into practice. I like to refer to this verse as, "The Excuse-buster." It is a reminder that when we choose to yield to temptation, it is because we wanted "it" more than the joy of obedience.

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

PRAYER: Lord, thank you for making a way of escape from the temptations I face. Please let my feet, mouth, head and heart all choose to follow the path of victory that awaits on the other side of the exit door. 

IDEAS FOR JOURNAL ENTRY: Make a list of the things that tempt you repeatedly. Choose one to pray about and ask God to break the stronghold of this temptation.

Devotion by Diana Robinson, Lithonia, Georgia