As I was prepping to preach on the Harlot of Babylon, I read a number of defenses of adulterous relationships that contained the phrase, “You can’t help who you fall in love with.” I have also heard that phrase on TV and used in defense of homosexual and even pedophiliac relationships. “It’s not a choice. you can’t help with whom you fall in love! After I picked up on this pattern I wanted to yell back at the author, “Yes, you can!” Just run, don’t walk, away! Of course some, these tend to be God-less people making these arguments and I’m the pastor of a local body who wants to grow in grace a truth, so with combating temptation in mind, I direct your attention to this study from 1992. Pay special attention to the causes and cures in the final paragraph!
A recent survey of Discipleship Journal readers ranked areas of greatest spiritual challenge to them:
- Materialism.
- Pride.
- Self-centeredness.
- Laziness.
- (Tie) Anger/Bitterness.
- (Tie) Sexual lust.
- Envy.
- Gluttony.
- Lying.
Survey respondents noted temptations were more potent when they had neglected their time with God (81 percent) and when they were physically tired (57 percent). Resisting temptation was accomplished by prayer (84 percent), avoiding compromising situations (76 percent), Bible study (66 percent), and being accountable to someone (52 percent).
Discipleship Journal, November / December, 1992.
Blessings,
Pastor Scott
Grace Notes 