Temptation comes to all of us in one form or another.  Who at one time or another has not felt an intense desire to do something you really knew you shouldn’t do?

One of the best descriptions I’ve ever read of temptation was written by Wawa Ponce.  I have to warn you: it’s very graphic. She says, “Temptation is a luscious, chocolate-coated morsel that conceals a dozen wriggling maggots inside.”[1] (Hey, I warned you it’s graphic!)

Yes, temptation looks and even tastes good on the outside. Giving in to temptation often brings us pleasure–no one would deny that. The book of Hebrews speaks of “the pleasures of sin” (11:25). But after you’ve given in, you find the results are pretty disgusting. The enjoyment is short-lived, and there’s always disappointment in the end.

It’s easy to think, “Well, I’m not really bothered much by temptation—I never wanted to murder anyone or be unfaithful or to cheat “big time.” But what about the temptation “to ignore God. The temptation to…hurt others…to be who I am not…. To boast…to crave power, wealth and authority. The temptation to demand from God what I want”?[2] That hits a little closer to home, doesn’t it.

The good news is that we don’t have to give in to temptation.  Scripture says, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And 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” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

We simply need to be willing to turn from temptation and call on God for help. For, after all, He is really the one we would be sinning against if we gave in. When Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife to commit adultery, he turned from her, responding, “How…could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9b). Ask yourself that the next time temptation strikes.

[1] Wawa B. Ponce, “Putrid Desserts,” from Women on the Journey, compiled and edited by Michelle Ocampo-Joaquin (Makati City, Philippines: Church Strengthening Ministry, Inc., 2004), 50.

 

[2] Ibid.