Sunday, February 23, 2003
Sunday, February 23, 2003
Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will
receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
Lo and behold after a while the man got up, leaving behind one whole doughnut. An internal
struggle ensued and temptation triumphed. The woman reached across the table, picked up the
doughnut and started to eat it. Just then the man came back with a second cup of coffee.
Temptation.
Somebody has said that ever since the Garden, "forbidden fruit is responsible for many a bad
jam." Temptation.
What's the hardest thing in the world to control? Some 38.5 percent of us say the hardest thing
in their lives to control is their weight. Another 32.3 percent say they wrestle most with their
spending. Just 10.8 percent say the hardest thing to control is their anger, 16.9 percent pinpoint
their fears, and 1.5 percent their smoking, drinking, or drug use--or abuse. But everyone has
their own temptation.
Jesus calls us to over come our temptation by focusing on God's will for our lives. Then our
reward will be in heaven.
(James 1.12
NRSV)
A member of Weight Watchers was determined to make it through a full week without cheating.
She dropped into a cafeteria one day for a cup of coffee. A man with two doughnuts and a cup
of coffee sat down on the other side of the table. The pastries smelled truly delicious--but the
woman remained firm in her decision not to indulge.
Loving God, may I develop the good habits I need to over come my temptations. Amen.
