[Discoveries] 05-18-08 Jesus, the realist -- Matthew 18:7

[Inspiration in Your Inbox]

/*Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such 
things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come! -- Matthew 
18:7*/

When we are tempted, there are all kinds of dynamics at work. Usually 
some kind of deception is present. Usually some kind of pain is 
screaming for a solution or some desire is begging to be indulged. 
Temptations can be, and often are orchestrated by the enemy. And other 
people sometimes have a more or less conscious role in creating 
temptations for us.

Jesus is the ultimate realist. He knows how real temptations are for us. 
He knows how strong they are. He knows where they come from and how they 
enter our lives.

But Jesus pulls us back and offers an eternal perspective. Yes, there 
are those who bring powerful temptations into our lives simply because 
they want to see us fall. Yes, that creates trouble for us. But God will 
not forget. That trouble will be repaid.

Meanwhile, when we bring all our temptations to Jesus, His truth clears 
up the cloud of deception, His love soothes away our pain, His care 
satisfies our desires with good things. And He can outmaneuver the enemy 
any day of the week.

Be encouraged!
Dwight

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