Fighting Temptation

FIGHTING TEMPTATION

By: Julie Souza Bradley Lilly

When life becomes stressful, temptation rears it’s ugly head.  It whispers promises of relief or silencing of tormenting thoughts, if we will just give in to it.

If we are without our armor and engage the enemy in a battle of wits, he will attempt to coerce us into taking back the burdens that we have given to the Lord.  He knows that if we do, the temptation will become stronger.  

The enemy is crafty, but HALLELUJAH, the Lord has provided a way of escape: 

“Cast your cares (burdens) on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” – Psalms‬ ‭55:22‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Other versions replace “shaken” with “fall, fail or stumble.” What a remarkable exchange.  When we hand our cares to the Lord, He keeps us from falling!

Father, we bring to You the burdens that You never intended for us to carry. We admit that without You we are powerless to change. 

Lord, Your Word says in Genesis 1:3, ““Let there be light,” and there was light.” (NIV). Your words created something from nothing.  Speak light into our darkness! Shine a light of revelation on what has been holding us back!

Lord, we put on our new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after Your image (Colossians 3:10).  We put on the whole armor of God, and a new mind, transformed by the washing of the Word (Ephesians 5:26).

Deliver us. Give us hope for what feels hopeless and faith to believe before seeing.  Holy Spirit we invite You to change us.  Do what only You can do, and help us to cooperate.  

Your Word says that without a vision the people perish—they cast off restraint and run wild (Pro 29:18).  Give us Your vision, that our focus on it will be an anchor in the storm, and divine propulsion forward when we are out of strength.  Infuse our reason with fiery passion, and then reveal the steps to take toward freedom. 

Father, we hand over our burdens to Your loving and capable hands.  Now give us the faith and strength to leave them there.  In Jesus’ Name ❤️

https://www.facebook.com/Prayers-of-a-Ragamuffin-Warrior-171515087035441/

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