Escaping Temptation

It is of great importance that we realize our identity in Christ. He has made us righteous. (see Romans 5:17 & 2 Corinthians 5:21) That can be easy to forget when temptation comes along.

As Father would have it, Holy Spirit, who guides us into the truth (see John 16:13), reminds us of our righteousness. These reminders of who we are give us an opportunity to choose godly attitudes and actions. (see 1 Corinthians 10:13)

Over the course of my life, I discovered that when I was thinking of sinning, thoughts came up saying things like “you’ll feel better about yourself if you don’t go through with this.” I also found that while I was sinning, thoughts of Christ living in me would often come to mind. Almost always after I carried out my sinful plan, I felt unsettled in a way that wasn’t really guilt. It was more like heartbreak or disappointment in myself.

Holy Spirit may interact with you differently than He interacts with me. He knows what fits you best, but rest assured, He is interacting with you.

If we pay attention, we come to see that similar thoughts and feelings happen every time we act badly. Eventually we put two-and-two together and realize it’s His voice we’re hearing. As we grow, we become convinced that it is best for us to yield to these promptings and let the Spirit take the lead. It’s really what’s best and the only thing that truly satisfies.