Tenth Commandment – No Coveting

Tenth Commandment – No Coveting

Exodus 20: ¹⁷ “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor’s.”

 

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GOD told Moses and the children of Israel not to covet or want the stuff other people have.

 

My Observations:

• GOD seemed to be fortifying the children of Israel against being able to be tempted by the world’s treasures.
• GOD knew that people could easily be bribed or bought to not follow HIM.
• JESUS was tempted by Satan with the world’s treasures because Satan did not want JESUS to die for the sins of mankind.

 

Ten commandments were given to everyone for a different reason than I thought. I used to believe these were harsh rules that seemed impossible to keep, or a checklist of measures to show how good I was. But this is not a list of “Do as I say or else.” The Ten Commandments are a list of protections against the attack of Satan.

 

It took ten plagues to disable the mindset of the Egyptians. Now GOD provided ten commandments that would protect you and me from Satan. This list is all about JESUS. When the HOLY SPIRIT led JESUS into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan, worldly treasures were used as an attempt to get JESUS to misuse HIS power.

 

The consequence would have been Satan winning all humans for himself because the scrolls that sentenced Satan would not have been opened. But JESUS overcame the temptation of the world’s treasures. You and I can do the same. When we want more of the world’s finest, we can be tempted away from GOD’s finest, namely JESUS.

 

Having stuff is not bad. Having needs, wants and desires is also not bad. Trading in JESUS to get stuff is bad because you can gain the whole world and lose your soul. I believe GOD recognizes jealousy over a missing need. If I don’t have a need and I see someone who has the need, I am going to ask GOD, “Can I have my need fulfilled?”  GOD will bring the right resource at the right time.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS warning to not covet?
• Have you ever been taken off of GOD’s path because you wanted something that someone else had?
• Can you place your desires, wants and needs before GOD and let HIM sort through how and when HE will deliver you?

Resilient Character Building

Resilient Character Building

Genesis 39: ¹⁰ So it was, as she spoke to Joseph day by day, that he did not heed her, to lie with her or to be with her.

 

¹¹ But it happened about this time, when Joseph went into the house to do his work, and none of the men of the house was inside, ¹² that she caught him by his garment, saying, “Lie with me.” But he left his garment in her hand, and fled and ran outside. ¹³ And so it was, when she saw that he had left his garment in her hand and fled outside, ¹⁴ that she called to the men of her house and spoke to them, saying, “See, he has brought in to us a Hebrew to mock us. He came in to me to lie with me, and I cried out with a loud voice. ¹⁵ And it happened, when he heard that I lifted my voice and cried out, that he left his garment with me, and fled and went outside.”

 

¹⁶ So she kept his garment with her until his master came home. ¹⁷ Then she spoke to him with words like these, saying, “The Hebrew servant whom you brought to us came in to me to mock me; ¹⁸ so it happened, as I lifted my voice and cried out, that he left his garment with me and fled outside.”

 

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Potiphar’s wife propositioned Joseph, day after day after day. He may have tried to avoid her, or ignore her, but she got to the point where she was not going to take “no” for an answer. She aggressively pursued Joseph, but he escaped. He left his garment and she thought of a lie.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph had integrity and character because he was following GOD.
• Abram was called a Hebrew and so was Joseph.
• Even when Joseph showed extreme character, he could still be lied on and slandered.

 

When all else fails, defamation of character seems to be the tool used against those who refuse to bow to evil ways. Joseph was doing well until he met Potiphar’s wife. Her desire to get what she wanted made her dream up a lie to cover her actions. She may have thought Joseph would tell on her, but she did not know Joseph had extreme character that would not do that.

 

Joseph’s restraint was the right thing to do, yet he found himself in a situation he did not cause. He did not tell Potiphar that his wife was constantly pursuing him, probably because he did not want her to get in trouble. But she had no problem with telling as many people about her lie as possible. Joseph’s character was now being put to test even though he did no wrong.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Potiphar’s wife’s’ advances toward Joseph?
• Have you ever had your character defamed?
• Can you stand firm in your walk with the LORD even when people are mislabeling you and even slandering you?

Now What?

Now What?

Revelation 18: After this I saw another angel coming down out of heaven. He had great authority, and his splendor brightened the whole earth. ² He cried out in a loud voice: “She has fallen! Great Babylon has fallen! She is now haunted by demons and unclean spirits; all kinds of filthy and hateful birds live in her. ³ For all the nations have drunk her wine—the strong wine of her immoral lust. The kings of the earth practiced sexual immorality with her, and the merchants of the world grew rich from her unrestrained lust.”

 

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Waiting for my parents to overlook the keys to the car, I slid them out of sight. They were going on vacation and I planned on using the car without permission. They left and the keys were mine! I started the car and as I was driving, noticed the engine was getting hot. I checked the fluid levels and there was no coolant in the car. I spent all my money just trying to get the car to work.

 

• I got what I wanted but did not want what I got.
• I added problems by my sneakiness that I had not accounted for.
• I was in worse shape by doing something I should not have been doing.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard another angel, who had great authority, announce that the great city Babylon has fallen. This was the thing that tempted humans into fulfilling their lusts for sex, power and money. The evil plan to tempt people away from GOD failed and evil was turned against evil.

 

My Observations:

• My evil plans never work, BUT GOD’s loving plans always succeed.
• My plans that use the world’s methods may temporarily succeed, BUT GOD rewards me eternally for following HIS plans.
• It seems like every time I used evil as my plan, it backfired and then I ended up in worse shape.

 

“Now what?” is the question that I have to ask myself when I realize my sin put me in worse shape. I mean, do I keep going down the sinful path or do I stop, turn around and go towards the way that I know is right and would benefit me? Unfortunately, there have been times when I have chosen to be wrong and fall down with my sins. BUT GOD has that in HIS plans.

 

HE saw my sins and made a way for me to return to HIM. By confessing my sins, HE is faithful and just to cleanse me of all unrighteousness. HE restores my soul and leads me on the path of righteousness. I am glad GOD gives me another chance.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer was informed about the angel’s authority?
• Have you ever did something wrong and now you have to live with your mistake?
• Will you tell GOD about your mistake so HE can erase it and restore you and give you a better path to walk today?

Un-trapped

Un-trapped

James 1: ¹² Happy are those who remain faithful under trials, because when they succeed in passing such a test, they will receive as their reward the life which God has promised to those who love him. ¹³ If we are tempted by such trials, we must not say, “This temptation comes from God.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, and he himself tempts no one. ¹⁴ But we are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires. ¹⁵ Then our evil desires conceive and give birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

 

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Having a mountain of homework made me a bit nervous. But seeing the naked girls had me distracted the rest of the day. The boys locker room was connected to the girls locker room by a double wooden door. Some smart-aleck fashioned a hole between the doors from which we could see. Taking turns, we ogled and commented.

 

• I had work to do, but I could not do it because I was distracted.
• Instead of thinking of solutions for the work I was supposed to be doing I dreamed of ways to beat they guys and get in front of the line.
• My mind was trapped and I got caught by a teacher because I did not notice him standing behind me.

 

James gets rid of the blame game humans play with GOD. He mentions that during difficult times, humans have a tendency towards sin. He tried his best to paint a picture of how acting on our own temptation can cause us to justify our own sin which leaves us trapped.

 

My Observations:

• Temptation comes from the enemy to take me off the path of solutions for GOD.
• Remaining focused to what GOD wants me to do helps me stay out of the traps of my own desires.
• GOD does not tempt me BUT HE does guide me back to HIM if and when I fall.

 

Temptations can be tough. I mean, food, gambling, hoarding, substance and sex are all sticky temptations humans can fall into. When stressful times arise, the temptation can rear its head as a temporary solution. Unfortunately this only brings on more pain and problems. BUT GOD has an answer.

 

JESUS provides a different path. HE not only saved me from the consequences of sin, which is death; he also gave me things to think on to pursue HIS Kingdom. When my mind is focused on what HE wants me to do, I can reduce the pressure of the trial and focus on GOD’s voice. I am glad GOD forgives me when I fall and is willing to pick me up and place me on HIS path.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer explain temptation?
• Have you ever been under pressure and done something regretful?
• Will you take the pressure off yourself by knowing JESUS forgives you if you fall to temptation, so you can hear HIS love enough to choose HIS path versus sin next time?

Becoming Secure

Becoming Secure

Ephesians 4: ²⁵ No more lying, then! Each of you must tell the truth to the other believer, because we are all members together in the body of Christ. ²⁶ If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day. ²⁷ Don't give the Devil a chance. ²⁸ If you used to rob, you must stop robbing and start working, in order to earn an honest living for yourself and to be able to help the poor. 

 

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“Fine” was the lying reply I used to the question “How are you?” to keep from telling the truth that many aspects of my life were falling apart. I did not want to continuously be a burden and I wasn’t feeling secure enough to tell the truth.

 

• I felt insecure so I answered questions in ways to avoid conversations where I looked pitiful.
• I felt frustrated so I let my anger guide my mouth and other actions.
• I felt deserving so I listened to temptations and fell into sin.

 

Paul speaks with a very direct tone when addressing specific examples of old ways to turn from. He sees that some were acting out of their insecurities and falling into the trap of lying to others and themselves. He gives guidelines to enable self-control.

 

My Observations

• Security is something GOD wants me to place in HIM.
• Anger is allowed but requires me to communicate to GOD so HE can diffuse it.
• Broader thinking and surrender is something GOD wants me to add to my choices.

 

Thinking of protecting myself, I can easily fall into lies, get angry and even consider robbing others by stealing money, people or credit for something he or she should be credited for. The old childish ways of insecurity gives the Devil a chance all the time. BUT GOD provides a way out.

 

HE shows me that I am part of a larger family of sick and hurt people. No one is more superior than the next. I can tell the truth about my situation because the next person needs to hear what I am experiencing. Self-control is part of the fruit of the SPIRIT. I am glad GOD offers me a way back to HIS path by becoming secure in HIS love for me.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer gives this strong warning?
• Have you ever fallen for some items listed and found out things were worse?
• What insecurities are you battling that make you question GOD’s true love for you?
• Will you become more secure by letting go of some of your self-protection and allow GOD to provide the answer in HIS way and time?

Another Way

Another Way

Ephesians 2: In the past you were spiritually dead because of your disobedience and sins. ² At that time you followed the world's evil way; you obeyed the ruler of the spiritual powers in space, the spirit who now controls the people who disobey God. ³ Actually all of us were like them and lived according to our natural desires, doing whatever suited the wishes of our own bodies and minds. In our natural condition we, like everyone else, were destined to suffer God's anger.

 

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Growing up obeying the rules, I decided to step away from them to see what would happen. When I did not get struck with a bolt of lightning or get swallowed up by a fiery pit, I said to myself, “Maybe I can try more things that the rules say I shouldn’t.” When I found myself in deep trouble, I wondered how I got there.

 

• I was in a bad place with no hope.
• I felt I did not have a way out.
• I thought I was a disappointment to GOD and even HE would not help me.

 

Paul describes a progression towards a state of being that provides life. He spoke of a time in which the spiritual powers blinded people into following ways that would lead to GOD’s anger. Everyone suffered the natural condition. It seemed hopeless. BUT GOD had another way.

 

My Observations

• JESUS saw I could never achieve HIS required state of perfection so HE died for me.
• JESUS is GOD who became a human for me, was murdered by HIS creation and was raised from the dead, just for me.
• JESUS gave me another way that provides hope and a future.

 

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD.”  GOD loved everyone enough to gave a gift. It is up to me to accept HIS gift and live inside of HIS path. Unfortunately there is an adversary who wants me to doubt GOD or blame HIM or question HIS authority or ways.

 

I then say things like “Why does GOD do…?” and “If GOD is so loving then why…?” I then question other people’s walk with JESUS and eventually my own. BUT GOD wants me to have a solid relationship with HIM. HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT to dwell inside me and guide me to places of peace in stormy times. I am grateful GOD cares for me and I do not have to worry.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer is mentioning “the past?”
• Do you see there is an alternative?
• Will you seek a life that provides hope by asking GOD to handle all of your difficulties today?

Gently Restore

 

Gently Restore

Galatians 6:1 My friends, if someone is caught in any kind of wrongdoing, those of you who are spiritual should set him right; but you must do it in a gentle way. And keep an eye on yourselves, so that you will not be tempted, too.

 

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Mistakes could be seen a mile away. But my approach to correcting the mistake was harsh and direct. I would tell what he or she did wrong without thought of how embarrassing or  debilitating it could be.

 

• I was not gentle.
• I only wanted correction.
• I did not factor in how to restore.

 

Paul mentions the approach of putting people back on the right track after a wrongdoing. He first calls on those who believes in JESUS as the Savior to approach the person about the wrongdoing. He then suggests a gentle approach and finally he warns everyone that they are not infallible of falling.

 

My Observations

• JESUS restored me by dying for my sins.
• The HOLY SPIRIT gives me discernment to see how to follow JESUS in love.
• The FATHER expects me to seek restoration of others so they too can follow JESUS in love.

 

Everyone makes mistakes, says something wrong or disappoints one another. BUT GOD is not looking for us to be the mistake Mounties, rather the restoration rangers. Correction without restoration comes across as being high and mighty. I know this from experience.

 

I may mean well, but may be missing another side, namely GOD’s restoration. GOD wants me to gently restore people because HE wants to be gentle with me. Any mistake a human can do is also within me. I am grateful GOD is merciful to me and wants HIS mercy for everyone.

 

Challenge

• What are the suggestions from the writer?
• Is it easy to see what others are doing wrong?
• What does restoring a person to follow JESUS look like to you?
• Do you have any blind spots that you should be careful of when guiding a person back to GOD’s restoration, that you should be aware of and may fall into?

Power to Remain

 

Power to Remain

1 Corinthians 10: ¹¹ All these things happened to them as examples for others, and they were written down as a warning for us. For we live at a time when the end is about to come.

¹² If you think you are standing firm you had better be careful that you do not fall. ¹³ Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out.

 

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“Why is this happening to me!” I exclaimed many times. Each time I screamed this out, I was going through yet another trial. Which direction would I go? Would I stay with GOD or choose to sin and ask HIM for forgiveness?

 

• There have been times when I wanted nothing but peace.
• There have been times when I sought peace from what the world had to offer.
• There have been times when I wanted to complain about the current trial versus thank GOD.

 

Paul talks about tests or trials. He explains that every human will go through something that will cause questions to arise about the super solid relationship a person can have with GOD. He explains that GOD knows what the test is and is using this test to grow each person to choose “a way out.”

 

• GOD wants me to know HE is growing me when trials arise.
• GOD wants me to know HE loves me but need to rid me of some things that hold me back from having a great relationship with HIM.
• GOD wants me to choose “HIS way out” versus the flimsy plan I can come up with.

 

Having the power to remain in GOD is something else. I mean, humans will come up with solution after solution, never once asking GOD to provide HIS all powerful strength. Yes, we may pray, but when we don’t see the prayer answered in the time or way we want, we easily throw out GOD and turn to something we can see.

 

GOD wants me to “remain firm.” This means letting go of anything that I think is a solution and allow HIS deliverance in the time and way HE wants it. I am glad HE takes me through trials so I can choose HIS way, little by little.

 

• Are you going through a trial?
• Does this seem like the same trial you have been in over the years?
• Will you open your heart to GOD and allow HIM to give you “HIS way out” this time so you can remain firm in HIM today?

Wet Paint, Hot Stove

 

Wet Paint, Hot Stove

Romans 7: ⁹ Once I was alive apart from the law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died. ¹⁰ I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death. ¹¹ For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death. ¹² So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good.

 

¹³ Did that which is good, then, become death to me? By no means! Nevertheless, in order that sin might be recognized as sin, it used what is good to bring about my death, so that through the commandment sin might become utterly sinful.

 

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“Don’t touch that. The paint is wet” were the words that made me want to touch the wall. “Wet cement” seemed like an invitation to write my initials. “Hot stove, do not touch” seemed like a suggestion to try it out. But I obeyed and did not touch or write my initials.

 

But then someone said “Don’t worry.” Wait. Don’t worry about what? Now I couldn’t stop thinking about the thing I wasn’t supposed to worry about. I worried about my worry.

 

Some things that were brought to my awareness made me want to try it.

Some things that I would have never tried, I did because it was put in front of me.

Some things that should have been avoided, I got into because someone told me not to.

 

Paul talks about how sin used what is good to cause death. The Law was made to protect humans, but sin used it to entice people to do the opposite of the Law, thus causing death. Sin is recognized through the Law.

 

GOD wants me to follow HIS ways.

GOD wants me to learn about HIM so I can be protected from the consequences of sin.

GOD wants me to seek HIM daily so I will not pursue sin that fools me into thinking it is better than HIS way.

 

“Do not worry” or “Do not get angry” makes me more worried and very angry. I mean, how am I supposed to not be afraid of the unknown? Fortunately GOD took care of my problems with following the Law. JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead. By believing in HIS saving power I can follow HIS ways when I fall.

 

When I get worried, GOD enables me to see HIS power and promises. After a while, I’m not so worried. When I get angry, GOD shows me a way to have peace and suddenly the anger dissipates. The wet paint and hot stoves become easier for me not to touch when I recognize GOD is trying to protect me. I am glad HE loves me.

 

Have your desires gotten the best of you?

Do you want things that may be opposite of what GOD wants for you?

Will you surrender your life to GOD so HE can guide you to HIS powerful purpose today?

Wilderness Training

Luke 3: Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, ² being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.

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“Do you want to hang out with us?” was code for “Let’s go out drinking, dancing and laughing all night.” Yes was my normal answer, but this time a strange word came out of my mouth. “No” I said. One guy would not take “no” for an answer. “There will be lots of honey’s there” he said trying to change my answer. “Hmm, I don’t have anything to do.” I thought to myself.

• There was a time when the purpose of my life was focused on maximizing relaxation.
• There was a time when I pursued as much pleasure as possible.
• There was a time when I spent an enormous amount of time and money on “fun.”

JESUS was led into the wilderness by the HOLY SPIRIT. For forty days HE did not experience pleasure or comfort. HE did not eat so HIS body was weak. At HIS weakest moments the devil tempted HIM, but HE held strong. Each temptation HE denied only made HIM stronger.

• JESUS wants me to bypass temptation little by little in order to get stronger.
• JESUS wants me to purposefully focus on growing in HIM little by little.
• JESUS wants me to follow HIS example knowing I will fail, but try again and again with HIS help.

JESUS had to remain sinless in order to redeem a sinful world. HE does not require me to be sinless, because I cannot redeem mankind. HE does want me to know that the less I sin the more of HIS power can be shown.

HE somehow rewards me when I turn from temptation, but it takes practice in order to do it. HE sees when I fail, but more importantly HE sees when I succeed in passing up the temptation in order to further HIS kingdom. JESUS knows my every weakness and still has total grace for me.

• Do you feel like a failure to GOD?
• Do you feel like you are not being good enough?
• Will you stop trying so hard to be good and allow GOD to transform you little by little at HIS pace to do HIS will?

Already There

Mark 7: ¹⁴ When He had called all the multitude to Himself, He said to them, “Hear Me, everyone, and understand: ¹⁵ There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. ¹⁶ If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!”

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Seeing the new clothes on the mannequin stirred up something inside me that said “I want that.” As I surveyed the handsome garments, a salesperson immediately came over. “You would look great in this” she said to me, batting flirty eyes. “I have to have this!” were my new words.

• Sometimes I think I am tempted by what I see.
• Sometimes I think I am drawn to temptation by what I hear.
• Sometimes I think it is the situation that is holding me down.

“If it weren’t for that, fill in the blank, I would not have fallen into temptation” were my words I would use to justify my actions. JESUS negates my excuses immediately.

• JESUS says to me “Fortify your heart on a daily basis.”
• JESUS says to me “Guard your heart daily before you go out.”
• JESUS says to me “Seek ME and you will find ME daily.”

Some of the temptations I found did not happen by chance; rather it was because I was looking to be tempted. In other words, it was already in my heart before I left the house. GOD wants me to understand my weaknesses and ask HIM to fortify my senses before I go out into the world.

GOD gave me smell, touch, sight, hearing and taste as wonderful, pleasurable sensations that I can use or abuse this day. GOD says “Ask and I will guide you to use your senses to MY glory today.”

• Are you easily tempted?
• Do you think you were tempted by chance or was it already in your heart?
• Can you admit what you easily fall for and ask GOD to handle that for you?
• Will you allow GOD to flow from your heart instead of defilement today?

Treating GOD any old way!

Judges 17: ⁵ Now this man Micah had a shrine, and he made an ephod and some household gods and installed one of his sons as his priest. ⁶ In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.

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“GOD won’t mind” is what I said when I lied to my boss for slipping away and goofing off. Well, actually I didn’t think about GOD at the time but later when it popped in my head I did. “GOD won’t mind” is what I said when I did (insert sin here). I mean HE did forgive me so I can sin as much as I want right?

• Sometimes I treat GOD a bit too common.
• Sometimes I treat GOD as if HE can’t do anything to me.
• Sometimes I treat GOD like HE is a pushover and doesn’t require me to worship HIM.

My actions will always bear fruit, but many times the fruit may be rotten. GOD sees through my actions and understands that if even the tiniest bit of sin is at the root, the action will fail. Does this mean everything I do will fail?

• GOD forgave me and cleansed me of all unrighteousness but I still should follow HIS ways.
• GOD understands every temptation I face but if I look carefully HE shows me a way out.
• GOD knows my weaknesses because HE made me but HE loves when I overcome them and turn to HIM.

Sometimes I look at GOD with extreme eyes. Either HE is this mushy, weak forgiver or HE is a sadistic punisher who likes to put tests in front of me that I will constantly fail. GOD is so much different than my thoughts!

HE is all powerful, all seeing, all knowing and chooses to show HIS love, gentleness and kindness to have a relationship with me.  HE knows the right amount of discipline to grow me instead of breaking me and has my best interest in mind ALL the time!

• Do you have the wrong view of GOD?
• Are you doing anything you wish and think there is no consequence for your action?
• Won’t you turn your life back to GOD and watch HIM work in your life?
• Can you take small steps toward HIM so HE can take giant steps towards you?

Released from a promise

Numbers 30: ³ “Suppose a young woman is still living in her father’s house. She makes a special promise to the Lord. Or she takes an oath and agrees to do something

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⁴ “Suppose her father hears about her promise or oath. And he doesn’t say anything to her about it. Then she must keep her promise. She must do what she agreed to do.

⁵ “But suppose her father doesn’t allow her to keep her promises when he hears about them. Then she doesn’t have to do what she promised or agreed to do. The Lord will set her free. He’ll do it because her father hasn’t allowed her to keep her promises.

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Since GOD takes promises and authority very seriously HE allows times when promises can be broken.  HE recognizes situations where I haven’t thought through my promise because of my lack of exposure at the time.

• GOD knows there may be situations for releasing me from a promise but getting tired isn’t one of them.
• GOD recognizes I may have promised in haste and I may not be able to keep my promise so I need to learn not to promise something I can’t keep.
• GOD sees when I should step up and make a promise and it will be up to me to seize the opportunity to take a harder road and remain disciplined to HIS way.

I have taken some difficult promises over the years that proved quite overwhelming.  “Not complaining about anything or being sarcastic for 30 days” proved to be eye-opening to say the least. Some promises are easy some seem to grow temptation to its paramount.

GOD says “take promises seriously but make promises to ME.” I may only make a few promises to the LORD in my life but the ones I make I need to keep.

• Are you afraid to make a promise?
• Are you willing to sacrifice something or follow through with something GOD is moving you to do?
• Won’t you make a promise without thinking “GOD will understand if I don’t keep this promise?”
• If you have been kept from fulfilling your promise can you understand GOD has released you?

GOD has a blessing

Numbers:24: ⁵ “People of Jacob, your tents are very beautiful.
    Israel, the places where you live are very beautiful.

⁶ “They spread out like valleys.
    They are like gardens beside a river.
They are like aloes the Lord has planted.
    They are like cedar trees beside a stream.
⁷ Their water buckets will run over.
    Their seeds will have plenty of water.

“Their king will be greater than King Agag.
    Their kingdom will be honored.

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When circumstances seem most dismal, GOD comes through with HIS message of love. HE has never failed me before and HE certainly won’t start now. In fact, GOD sees all that I go through.  The trials, temptations, tribulations and troubles are all part of amazing growth I must endure to become stronger for HIS purpose.

·         GOD promises I will have plenty and HE knows there will be trials in my life.

·         GOD promises I will be rewarded in heaven and knows my needs here on Earth.

·         GOD promises I will have eternal life when I believe in JESUS’s murder and resurrection in place of my sins and knows I will continue to sin until I die.

When GOD blessed me, HE looked at my entire sinful life and immediately tried to restore me to my rightful place, the place HE created for me. That blessing is permanent! My belief in JESUS has eradicated all my sins. HIS grace is sufficient.

·         Do you feel GOD’s grace is sufficient for forgiveness of your sins?

·         Do you feel GOD’s grace is sufficient for forgiveness of “that” person’s sins?

·         Can you stop judging and ask for grace and let GOD take care of the situation?

·         Won’t you ask for a blessing instead of a curse for someone today?

Curiosity closed my eyes

Genesis 3: ⁶ When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. ⁷ Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.

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Music and a crowd seemed like the place I wanted to be.  It was exciting to see everyone having “fun.” Let’s play “insert drinking game name here.” In other words we were in college and any game could and would turn into a drinking game.

I was curious because I had never drank before. When it was my turn I grabbed a cup and quickly gulped it down.  Everyone cheered and laughter ensued. We played until the wee hours of the morning. The next day I was sick and sluggish, but that sure was “fun.”

• The crowd makes many actions seem “fun” but am I masking something?
• The crowd makes many actions seem “innocent” but is it good for me?
• The crowd makes many actions seem “delightful” but where is the crowd when things go wrong?

The argument over drinking continues but I’m talking about temptation in general.  The crowd will have me doing almost anything nowadays and I will easily fall for it because it seems “pleasurable.” But what does GOD want?

• GOD wants my spiritual eyes open and my sinful eyes closed.
• GOD wants me to pay attention to HIS ways instead of falling for ways that take me from HIM.
• GOD wants me to view HIS ways as being pleasurable versus the tempting ways of the crowd.

It sounds like I will never have fun again, right? Wrong! GOD never said act like a stiff, judgmental, old crony. HE wants my life to be full and rich but on HIS terms not mine. The first sin closed every human’s eyes and even Adam and Eve’s relationship was shaken with each other. BUT GOD saved them and me!

• Are you justifying what you are doing?
• Do you think it’s hard to follow GOD’s ways?
• Won’t you start learning who GOD really is?
• Can you seek HIS loving ways instead of following a path that may lead to destruction?

Something to look forward to

Revelation 22: ³ No longer will there be a curse upon anything. For the throne of God and of the Lamb will be there, and his servants will worship him. ⁴ And they will see his face, and his name will be written on their foreheads. ⁵ And there will be no night there—no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever.

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Ever have “one of those days?” I’ve had days where from the time I woke up until the time I went to sleep there were nothing but troubles.  It seems like when I said “what else could happen” something else would happen.  Is there any relief in sight?

• When Satan was thrown out of heaven for wanting to be GOD he tried to ruin mankind.
• When Satan tempted the first humans to sin GOD cursed the Earth and everything that surrounds it.
• When Satan plotted against GOD in an effort to take over GOD sealed up his fate along with anyone who does not believe in HIS SON.

So the Earth is cursed and life is difficult.  I should actually expect things to go wrong, not in a pessimistic way rather in a healthy understanding way.  GOD loves humans. GOD loves me, so much so that when HIS SON volunteered to take my punishment HE allowed it. Now JESUS has been raised from the dead and the curse will be lifted.

• One day JESUS will lift the curse on everything and I will be able to worship HIM without problems.
• One day I will be able to see JESUS and be excited about being in HIS presence.
• One day I will have HIS real name written on my forehead because I am one of HIS.
• One day I won’t need lights or the sun because I will have the SON.

Just thinking of this makes me breathe a sigh of relief. Knowing HE did all this for me makes me continue with “hope.”

• Do you have hope?
• Can you see that GOD has done it all just for you?
• Won’t you stop focusing on today’s issues and know GOD loves you dearly?
• Can you look forward to HIS promises? 

Who can help?

Hebrews 4: ¹⁴ Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. ¹⁵ For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.

¹⁶ Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

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As I sat in the auditorium I watched thousands of people walk in. All the pomp and glamour could not excite me because I didn’t know anyone. I was lonely and no one understood the glum look on my face. As I slugged back to my room I heard my name called. “We have been looking for you” one person said. 

“I know this is your first convention and I know how you feel because I felt the same way at my first.” Finally, someone who understood what I was going through!

• When I am tempted to sin I have JESUS who is my empathizer.
• When I am feeling low I have JESUS who is my empathizer.
• When I thoroughly mess up and cause my world to crash, I have JESUS who is my empathizer.

Sometimes I think GOD is there standing over me lording HIS un-follow-able rules. I mean everyone sins so why don’t I just give up and do what I want to do? GOD sees my weaknesses and flaws and determines I am clean.

• My faith should not be in humans rather it should be placed in JESUS who is GOD the SON.
• My faith should not be placed on causes rather it should be placed in JESUS who is GOD the SON.
• My faith should not be in my ability to avoid temptation or sin rather it should be placed in JESUS who is GOD the SON.

I can approach the throne with faith that GOD will accept me and my sins just as I am. HE empathizes with my issues and wants me to do the same to others. Instead of eradicating sin, HE wants me to show love so that HIS sufficient grace can cover their sins.

• Are you hiding your sin or is your heart hard that you believe you are not sinning?
• Are you tired of GOD and HIS rules?
• Can you look at JESUS who is GOD the SON as your empathizer?
• Won’t you forgive yourself as well as others in order to have grace and mercy shown to you?

I have someone who can help

Hebrews 2: ¹⁷ For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. ¹⁸ Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

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When I compare my temptations to other folks they seem rather mild. Okay, I was tempted to take my parents’ car without permission, look at a body I wasn’t married to, or move ahead in the company while taking others out of my way. People today would say “you are really a wimp” especially since I was really nervous as the temptation popped in my head.

Even though my temptations may seem mild they are temptations nonetheless. Who can help me with my temptations?

• When I am tempted to sin, I try to run away from GOD.
• When I am tempted to sin, I blame GOD for making too many rules.
• When I am tempted to sin, I look at others instead of myself and I justify my actions.

The devil knows sin blinds me from GOD’s grace. Every time I sin, I can’t see how GOD would love me, nor can I see that I have the right to tell anyone else about HIM.  I mean what would I say? “Follow the rules?” I couldn’t even follow them myself. Wait, maybe that’s what I should say!

• I should tell people I sin and GOD forgives me.
• I should tell people JESUS became a human and understands everything I go through.
• I should tell people GOD desires to help “anyone” who is willing to hear HIM.

GOD loved me so much that HE took my punishment for sin. HE sentenced HIMSELF and allowed HIS humans to murder HIM. Before HE died HE was tempted in every way possible. Yes “every way.” HE never sinned and fully understands my battle. HE is my focus to help me see around the temptation.

• Are you tempted?
• Do you feel like you are not in control of your life?
• Can you allow GOD to comfort you?
• Won’t you believe HE knows what you are going through and wants to help?

Just say “No!”

Titus 2: ¹¹ For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. ¹² It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,

¹³ while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, ¹⁴ who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

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Rain delayed the busses and everyone, including me, piled on the first bus that appeared. Standing room only forced us to be pushed to the seedier area of the bus where “that” guy felt compelled to light up his “homegrown” cigarette at six O’clock in the morning. He peered at me with a grin and asked “Want some?” That was an easy “NO!”

Later that day some of my friends said they were going to a party that night. I said I probably wouldn’t be allowed to go and they suggested that I sneak out. “Hmm, that’s not a bad idea” I thought to myself. The problem was I couldn’t come up with a good lie, our house was too small and my parents seemed to be awake at crazy hours. “How are you getting out of your house?” I asked.

• The world will always offer me something that seems “better” than GOD.
• The world will always want me to jump in on activities that are against GOD.
• The world will always invite me to join in activities that don’t please GOD but since “everyone” else is doing it maybe HE won’t mind.

The HOLY SPIRIT was place inside anyone who believes that JESUS (GOD) voluntarily allowed HIMSELF to be murdered by HIS own creation and is now living. The HOLY SPIRIT teaches me to say “NO” to the temptations of the world and HE comforts me “when” I decide to fall.

Little by little HE teaches me to take baby steps toward HIM and every time I fall, HE is right there to pick me up. CHRIST did the heavy lifting by removing eternal death from me. All I have to do is accept HIS gift and be purified. I can now take my baby steps toward HIM.

• Are you tempted to do something you know is wrong?
• Are you avoiding GOD so you can keep doing what you are doing?
• Can you turn toward HIM just a little today?
• Won’t you say “No” to that temptation and know that if you fall HE is there to pick you up?

I am weak when I think I’m strong

1 Corinthians 10: ¹² So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! ¹³ No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

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Hard work and innovation wasn’t enough to be in “the club.” I mean I had delivered some fantastic things for the company; shouldn’t I be promoted based on merit? I was careful with my budget, growing people and deriving new ways to grow but “the club” was elusive.

I went out with “the club” and they started talking about women’s body parts. “Is this my entry into the club? Maybe I should join in!” was the tempting thought that popped into my head.

I was finally in “the club” but at what cost?

• When I think I got it together is when I am the weakest.
• When I believe nothing can touch me is when I will be attacked.
• When I look at my achievements instead of my pitfalls I open myself up to temptation.

There is always a way out of temptation but are my desires blocking the exit door? Temptation doesn’t seem to come straight at me rather it lurks behind some other desire. Temptation also doesn’t seem to attack me when I can truly see I need GOD.

• GOD will always make a way out of temptation no matter how many times I fall.
• GOD gets excited when I get back up and follow HIS ways.
• GOD wants me to understand I need HIM instead of depending on my strength.

Every human has and will be tempted.  JESUS was tempted in more ways than I can even imagine. Being the all-powerful GOD yet remaining subject to human insults showed incredible restraint that only JESUS could perform.  HE did not fall to temptation to flex rather HE went to HIS execution for me. That is real strength.

• Do you think you have it together?
• Are you focused on your own accolades?
• Are you ready for today’s temptations?
• Will you let GOD be your strength instead of depending on yourself?