{ Day 168 }

Put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts … lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. —Ephesians 4:22; Hebrews 3:13

Have you ever thought about why we sin? Sin produces immediate pleasure. It gives a physical, spiritual, and emotional rush. We do not sin out of obligation. We sin because we believe that it will provide a pleasure that is superior to the pleasure of obedience to God. The power of temptation rests on a deceptive promise that sin will bring more satisfaction than living for God. The Word of God calls this promise the deceitfulness of sin or the deceitful lusts. We will only win the battle of temptation as we enjoy God. The Holy Spirit is setting forth the beauty of God in Jesus Christ so that we might become enticed by a holy affection whose power rivals the power of our sin.

{ PRAYER STARTER }

Father, remove from me the desire for instant gratification. Keep far from me the temptation for giving in to the pleasures of the moment. My only pleasure is in doing the will of my Father God.

The secret to conquering sin is satisfaction in God.