40 Days of cHesed—Day 26

Day 26 Growing through Temptation

Temptation—that reasonable-sounding voice that encourages you to take the easy way when the going gets tough. That distraction disguised as a shortcut. That thought suggesting you aim at an easier target. Even the idea that you give up archery altogether—you’re obviously never going to master it.

Temptation is part of the price for free will. We have choices to make every day. Some choices are between good and evil. Other choices are between good and better. There are even choices between better and best.

Temptation is always the lesser choice’s false advertisement.

Knowing the truth is the only way to see through the clever marketing scheme of our enemy. Our skills, honed in target practice, are what help us see through all the spin.

At the end of the discussion, there are basically only two choices when we are tempted:

1. Will this help me keep covenant more faithfully?

2. Will this make me break covenant?

So there’s not even a choice, really—once you’ve understood the truth. Always reach for a quality arrow. Don’t even touch those cheap ones the enemy tries to sell you!

Today’s Look at 1 John

Read 1 John 3:11-4:6. While you’re reading, look for false advertisements. What is being sold? Is anyone buying?

Keep Breathing!

You’re getting better at turning to God as your first reaction to every situation – so he can help you respond with righteousness.

You’ve got your signals mostly worked out—great! Just don’t listen to any false advertising, because nobody has a better bike or driver than you—nobody!