This week we take a deeper look at lust. This isn’t necessarily a comfortable subject. From Adam and Eve in Genesis to us, temptation is a universal problem but God faithfully provides a way out every time.   When Jesus was in the desert being tempted by the devil, he used the word of God as his escape. King David also used the word of God to stand against sin. Overcoming temptation requires God’s help. We should be careful not to overestimate our own natural ability and strength to stand against the enemy of our souls.

Lust is an illusion that looks like one thing but in reality is something totally different.  It can appear as a mirage of something you perceive to be better or more extravagant than what you have, but in reality it is a cheap counterfeit of God’s intended purpose for you.

When faced with sexual temptation, the Word of God says to FLEE! RUN! Remove yourself from the situation.  Too often though, we do the opposite. We continue to build an emotional relationship with someone or something other than our intended.  King David, who we recently looked at, made the same poor choice.  He stayed.

In Genesis, we read the story of Joseph, a guy who had the choice of giving in to lust or running from it.  Joseph was young, successful and very physically attractive.  Potiphar’s wife took notice of him and attempted to seduce him. Joseph refused the advances of Potiphar’s wife day after day.  When she finally became so aggressive in her advances, Joseph had to run to get away from her.

As Christ followers, we are not dependent on ourselves to be “strong” enough to remove ourselves from situations where we can become fair game for the enemy.  God through Christ has provided a way of escape. May we recognize it and choose to follow God’s plan for our lives.

Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 10:13, Romans 12:1-2, Psalm 119:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Proverbs 3:5-6, 1 Corinthians 10:12, Genesis 39:5-12, 2 Timothy 2:22, Galatians 5:24-25

Verse:                                                                                                                                                                                           The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.  1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT                                                                                                                        Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.  2 Timothy 2:22

Questions:                                                                                                                                                                  What made Joseph resist temptation? In what ways was Joseph’s story different from King David’s? How can God’s word help you when faced with lust? Have you ever had to RUN to get away from temptation?                                                                   

Prayer: Father, thank you for being faithful to me in every situation. When temptation comes to lust and desire things that are not for me, help me to trust in your word and strength to avoid the traps of the enemy.  Thank you for always providing what is best for me.  Help me to be content with what I have. In Jesus’ name. Amen.