"Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God", for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire, when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death." -James 1:13-15
This flesh - this dirty, rotting flesh - tries to consume and control me. This part of me that is DYING thinks that it can help me live. It thinks it can protect me. I believe it, and buy the lie that my flesh, my sinfulness, will sustain my life.
But what I forget is that this sinfulness runs like poison through my veins. It infiltrates my thoughts, my heart, and -if I let it- my actions. I can't just drop it off like trash at the dumpster. It didn't suddenly disappear when I accepted Christ. This is a burden I will carry with me for as long as I live, until I see the sweet face of Jesus.
BUT TAKE HEART. I have a Savior who redeemed me and provided victory for me over my sins. I don't have to give in to my flesh. I can fight the good fight --- and win.
Don't give up, my friends. Hold fast to Him who sought you. Yes, it is true that:
"Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8)
But it is also true that
"God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Do you see? He is faithful. He didn't leave you, but he provides a way out - a battle plan for victory. So run the race, fight the fight, live the life you were meant to live. It isn't easy, but it is worth it.
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I will not be disqualified for the prize." -1 Corinthians 9:24-27
So go, with hope: Run. Train. Win.
