Sunday, February 24, 2013

By: Gwen Hitt

Staying ON the Wagon

1 Corinthians 10:13  "...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 stand up under it."

About eighteen months ago, I decided to go on a diet.  Now, you have to realize that I had attempted almost every diet known to man WITHOUT much success! Finally, I approached this dieting experience with great resolve. I was determined to be successful.

Unbelievably, I managed to shed more than forty pounds, and I was well on my way to reaching my personal goal.  Sadly, for many reasons--holidays, vacation, busyness, complacency, etc.-- "I fell off the wagon!"

Now, why did I allow myself to go back to my old eating habits? I have no answer for you. I could go into great detail about all of the reasons above BUT that would only provide an opportunity for me to elaborate on excuses that truly have no merit.

Today's scripture tells us that God WILL provide a way for us to overcome temptations. When I reflected on this scripture, I identified the real reason for my getting off course. It was because I did not turn to God when I was tempted. Instead, I tried to do it on my own which led to failure.

Even Jesus was tempted. During a forty day fast, Satan tried to tempt Jesus over and over again. On one attempt, Satan told Jesus that if He really was the Son of God to turn some stones into bread. In Matthew 4:4, Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"

Jesus fought the devil and temptation by speaking the Word of God.

I challenge you today to call out to God whenever you are tempted.

No matter what your temptation is, your strength to overcome can be found in God and in His Word. Psalm 46:1 states, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." In your troubling or tempting times, God is available to wrap His arms around you like a safety belt keeping you on "The Wagon!"

Dear Lord, I read in Philippians 4:13 that "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." I thank You for loving me enough to provide supernatural strength in my times of temptation. I acknowledge that I need Your help to live a victorious life.

I thank You Jesus for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life. In the Name of Jesus I pray.