Overcoming Tailormade Temptations. Part [1] 12/18/2023 Evening thought)

Matthew 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. 19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: 20 These are the things which defile a man.

In most cases, when some people think that they’re being tempted, it is just the natural byproducts of a course of action taken by themselves, or others, and in some cases, the devil was going his merry way, in running his normal errands when folks stopped him and asked him to tempt us.

We do live in an evil world, with fellow fallen beings like ourselves and because of this the natural fallout could result in adversities and trials for the Christian and non-Christian alike, for none are exempt. Thus, it is just a fact of life that trials are a natural part of the package, and this all persons must be reconciled to.

However, when we speak of persons asking devils to tempt them, we’re referring directly to temptations that were unprovoked by the devil, but were rather the result of those inner cravings, as defined in our first passage. These cravings and latent tendencies must be understood for what they are, whether they are cultivated, inherited, or both.

Romans 7:16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!

Understanding Generational Curses and Blessings Part [16] 12/17/2023 (Morning thought)

Romans 8:26 Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Like the disciples of Christ, we too have our individual struggles and issues to deal with. The elders, and deacons of our church aren’t exempt, for we all have cultivated and inherited tendencies to confront which strive for the mastery. But like the disciples of Christ, mercy and grace are granted to one and all, so that we will be enabled to live victoriously in the here and now, and because of this fact, there is no need for any to be shackled to the habits and indulgences of bygone years.

Instead, let us grab the proverbial bull by the horns, and wherever it be the case, that one’s progenitors may have passed on down to us tendencies, habits or deficiencies, now we know that God’s grace and mercy can put these latent tendencies into reverse gear, for this is the very essence of salvation.

We therefore end with a passage of scripture which will enable us to live strong, not groveling in failures or weakness, but rather taking hold of the grace and mercy promised to a thousand generations.

Romans 8:31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

May The Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!