40 Days of cHesed—Day 27

Day 27 Defeating Temptation

Where do we get the strength to make right choices? How do we know what to do? We deploy our secret weapon.

What? Okay…it’s not supposed to be a secret weapon—under-use has made it seem like one, though.

Our secret weapon is a big part of God’s hesed (his actions and attitudes that help us keep covenant) toward us: the presence of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. The Holy Spirit is able to show us the truth—the truth that God will always provide a way for us to escape from every temptation. (See 1 Corinthians 10:13.)

Whenever we are faced with a choice, we turn to the Holy Spirit first. Then we put on our hesed glasses to help us see God’s will and take careful aim.

• Which choice will help me keep covenant?

• Which choice will cause me to break covenant?

Then, we must choose to keep covenant and not break covenant. We must choose to keep covenant, no matter what happens to us, because:

"…we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God chose them to become like his Son...." Romans 8:28,29 (NLT)

In the midst of every circumstance—good or evil, happy or sad—that we encounter in life, God’s Holy Spirit is at work. Not directing every thought or action (for we have free will), but weaving each strand together to ensure that something good comes from it.

Never are we more like Christ than when we choose to reject temptation—when we allow the power of the Holy Spirit to help us fulfill God’s purpose in us and through us.

Don’t let this powerful weapon remain an underused secret in your life.

Today’s Look at 1 John

Read 1 John 3:11-4:6. While you’re reading, look for the importance of truth.

Keep Breathing!

You are doing great turning to God as your first reaction to every situation – so he can help you respond with righteousness. Thank him for the Holy Spirit’s presence in your heart. Use that power to pump today—and see where God takes you. You can be sure that it will be good!