“Temptations keep us dependent upon God.”

A thought from Rick Warren (2012-10-23) from his book, The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? (p. 266). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. (Click on the title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

I love it. The Enemy’s plan for temptation is to take us away from God but in reality it can drive us to God.

The Bible in Hebrews 4: 16 (TEV) says, “Let us have confidence, then, and approach God’s throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.”

As Rick says, “God’s love is everlasting, and his patience endures forever. If you have to cry out for God’s help two hundred times a day to defeat a particular temptation, he will still be eager to give mercy and grace, so come boldly. Ask him for the power to do the right thing and then expect him to provide it. Temptations keep us dependent upon God. Just as the roots grow stronger when wind blows against a tree, so every time you stand up to a temptation you become more like Jesus. When you stumble — which you will — it is not fatal. Instead of giving in or giving up, look up to God, expect him to help you, and remember the reward that is waiting for you.” James 1: 12 (NCV) says, “When people are tempted and still continue strong, they should be happy. After they have proved their faith, God will reward them with life forever.”

Now there is a choice in there for us to make. Some people don’t want to go to God for help because they want to give in to the temptation. They want to do it and in that they turn away from God. It is their choice. But if you make the right choice it will reinforce your desire to grow in your character and to grow stronger in your relationship with Christ. Temptations keep us dependent upon God. The power of choice. Do I turn to God or do I give in to the temptation?

So which do you really want?

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