Temptation's Sneaky Footsteps

It’s just one small line I’ve crossed. It’s no big deal. Sure, there’s another one just up ahead, but look at everyone else. They’re comfortable climbing over it…why shouldn’t I? Then comes another…and another. Pretty soon, the lines of what we know to be right disappear.

Temptation. The call to wrongdoing. Stealth, quiet footsteps that become thundering hoof beats. The devil isn’t stupid. Many times, he starts things small…and from there, things build. Christian or not, we’re human, we’re sinful and we fail. Before long, left unchecked, temptation becomes overwhelming and can send your life spiraling out of control.

In Devotion, Kellen and Juliet are attending church one Sunday when their pastor launches into a sermon that hits home with Kellen in particular as their marriage fractures.

Pastor Gene says: “Seldom does temptation just step up and smack you over the head all at once and pull you under. That’s too obvious. Too easily rebuked. More often than not, it hits you at your weakest points. It starts small, and it builds.”

While he speaks, the pastor demonstrates the impact of temptation by fashioning a straight, smooth rope into a complex ball of tight knots.

The consequences of giving in to temptation form the theme of Devotion. What are your feelings about marital infidelity? How do you define infidelity? Is infidelity a lustful look, a kiss, a full-blown straying into an intimate relationship outside the marriage?  Have you lived through such an instance, or do you know someone who has? Consider the ramifications and impact. Consider the resolution as well. Was there reconciliation? Divorce?

Think about an instance when you found you could rebuke temptation. Next, think about times when you allowed temptation to have its way—letting it push you across lines you knew you shouldn’t approach. What were the consequences? What processes or actions healed you? If this is a continuing battle in your life right now, what measures are you taking to move beyond?

Scriptural Contemplation/Reflection:

Read Matthew 4:1-11

When it comes to battling evil, and the call of sin, do you feel like you’re alone? Do you feel like you’re past redemption? Nothing, Kellen and Juliet learn, is beyond Christ’s healing, mercy, and divine forgiveness. Not when reclamation is authentic, and embraced completely. Remember, Christ spent forty barren days in a dessert, battling the devil’s call. Christ knows, and He understands. Turn to Him and see what happens.

Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.  Hebrews 2:8 (NIV)