Sunday, March 24, 2024
“Overcome Temptation”
As we begin Holy Week, the final week of the Lenten Season, we tackle the most difficult Challenge possible. Today’s Challenge is to Overcome Temptation.
Before we jump to any conclusions, one point should be made. Temptation is often viewed as only being led toward a poor thought or action. Perhaps the greatest temptation any of us will encounter today is the temptation to avoid a good thought or action. Yes, sometimes we are led towards something bad. However, almost all of us will be led towards something good today and many of us will avoid it because it’s inconvenient, doesn’t make sense, or we feel like we don’t have the time or resources.
Let’s be real for a moment: Even in the best times of life, we can make bad decisions or engage in unhealthy actions. A complete focus on being perfect is not only silly but also unhealthy. We might be “perfect” for a few minutes, but soon we’ll lose focus and be distracted by many other things.
None of us are perfect. All of us will make many mistakes, some of which are accidents, and others that are intentional. Focusing on avoiding temptation for 24 hours will help because it’s an intentional, short-term focus.
Today, we aren’t trying to be perfect. Instead, we are trying to keep our thoughts and awareness on the things of God. Helping someone, avoiding a piece of cake, giving to God, and using positive language are just a few of the things we’ll likely encounter today.
Encouragement goes a long way. A smile is a powerful tool. Acknowledging the needs of others is selfless and beautiful.
Today, or at least for the next 24 hours, let’s focus on Overcoming Temptation. When the moment arrives, say a quick prayer. God is already present in that moment and God will provide all the words and actions we need. We can be better people for the LORD, each other, and ourselves. That’s why we, as people, are blessed to receive Holy Week. God didn’t come to condemn the world. God came to save it.
“God didn’t send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through him.” (John 3:17, CEB)
