His Servants' Ministry

We do not copyright anything. All material on this web site is here to provide free Biblical information. Anyone may freely use any or all the information present, to honor and glorify our awesome Triune God. All material here must remain free to "whosoever."

<><><><><><><>

HIS SERVANTS' MINISTRY

www.worldlychaos.org

Welcome to our website

RESISTING TEMPTATION

Contents
Introduction
Imitate Christ
Humble Opinion of Self
The Truth
Uncontrolled Lusts
Avoid False Hopes and Pride
Shun Over-Familiarity
Be Obedient and Submissive to God
Avoid Idle Talk
Caution in Action
Troubles Non All Bad
No One Exempt From Temptation
Your Relationship With Jesus
Works Done in Love
Enduring Faults of Others
A Simple Life
Example of the Saints
Ways of a Righteous Person
Loving Solitude and Silence
Sorrow of Heart and Soul
Thoughts on Man’s Misery
Thoughts about Death
Judgment and God’s Punishment of Sin
Amending Your Life
Salvation Message
Poem: “Changed”        #1177
Poem: “I Thank You”    #1204

Resisting Temptation
Written and compiled by: HIS SERVANT
Connie Kramer

Scripture verses taken from: [KJV] King James Version
Yellow bold italics is Jesus’ Words.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. [KJV]

Written and Compiled by:
His servant, Connie Kramer
Revised from original 10-2015

THIS BOOK IS NOT COPYRIGHTED,
AND IS NEVER TO BE COPYRIGHTED.
This book is free and not to be sold.

IT MAY BE USED BY “WHOSOEVER”
TO EDIFY THE CHURCH, AND TO
HONOR AND GLORIFY GOD.

I always try to make understanding God’s Word as easy as I possibly can for all. God will truly bless your efforts as you strive to learn more about Him. All praise and glory be to the One and Only, Almighty God!

Resisting Temptation
Introduction

There are so many different kinds of temptations in this life on Earth. Some major sources of temptations are pride, arrogance, self-righteousness, self-importance, etc. As God’s TRUE children, we will always be happiest when we are humble and meek, as was our precious Saviour, Jesus. It is only then can we ever expect a right position with God the Father! Only then can we ever have a right understanding of who we really are, in relation to God. God does not want us to be proud. When we are humble, we give all credit to Him for the Supreme Being that He is, knowing and recognizing that He is the Source of all life, all love, all goodness, and all hope within us and our lives.

1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. [16] For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. [17] And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (KJV) . . . Worldliness is sin; beginning in the heart and characterized by three things: (1.) the lust of the flesh; being preoccupied with satisfying physical desires; (2.) the lust of the eyes; bowing to the god of materialism; and (3.) the pride of life; being obsessed with one’s status and/or importance.
Luke 18:10-13 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. [11] The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. [12] I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. [13] And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. (KJV) . . . The self-condemned, NOT the self-righteous, are justified before God. These Passages warn about the danger of pride and self-righteousness that so many people have trouble with.

When we focus on our abilities and our achievements and give NO credit to God, we sin. We actually lie! NO true satisfaction can come from this state. Me, me, me. . . I, I, I . . . The middle letter of sin is “I”. The truth is: God created us; and He made us to glorify and serve Him. EVERY ability, gift, good idea or skill from ANY human being ultimately comes from God. If we fail to recognize the Source of our abilities as being from God; we are actually denying God’s position as Creator. A very dangerous attitude!

We can be tempted in so many ways; and giving in to temptations are always to please self . . . Never God! People are tempted to lie or steal. Maybe they see a way to take their frustrations with life out on innocent people. In reality, when we are presented with the option to sin, we are being tempted. Because some of these temptations are so subtle and unclear at times, we may not always be as ‘on guard’ as we should be. But these choices are constantly before us as we go through each day of our lives. We CANNOT do it alone! We need strength from God. Only with His power we can resist every type of temptation. We really need to understand why we resist, and we must be willing to resist even when it hurts and costs us.

Mark 8:34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (KJV) . . . Jesus Himself tells us, we need to deny our self, take up our cross and follow Him.

Two people can be exposed to the same temptation and yet respond quite differently. The person who is God’s TRUE child will have more strength to resist the temptation. The unbeliever will have difficulty resisting the temptation. Believers can have constant victory in our Christian lives, but, NOT "sinless perfection." So . . . How can a believer resist temptation?

Keep a close relationship with God. A close relationship with God is different than "spending time in prayer." Many Christians make a quick prayer trip to God, then retreat. Fellowship is being “friends” with God! It is a personal relationship with God the same way you would develop a personal relationship with someone here on Earth. You talk to them continually and share with them your feelings, desires, dreams, problems, etc. Only a close fellowship with God will provide you with tremendous spiritual strength and wisdom.

Stay close to the Word of God. God’s Word is an often-neglected reserve of spiritual strength and wisdom. Jesus knew the vast importance of the Word of God. He consistently used Scripture when He defended Himself against the devil in the wilderness (Mark 9:14-29). It is so important for us to follow Jesus’ example in resisting Satan and temptations he hurls at us. If you don’t continually study the Word of God and ingest it, it won’t be there when you need it to help you.

Commit EVERY area of your life to God. Some say that God is aware of all of our needs, so there is no need to pray for them. Yes, God does know our needs, BUT, He still wants us to ask Him for help. It shows our need for Him! And, when we commit something to God, we are actually giving Him control over it. IF we keep back parts of our lives (I can do that myself, attitude), it shows lack of trust in God’s power and wisdom. We really need His help in ALL parts of our lives.

Have others pray for you. Having others pray for you is important. It’s not just missionaries who need prayer support. We need prayer lifted by others to help support us.

Guard your thoughts. If we dwell on a single, sinful thought for any length of time, our chances of falling into its temptation is great. The longer we give any temptation ‘room’ in our mind, the harder it will be to resist it. Get rid of any sinful thoughts as soon as they come. Do NOT allow them to take root! The deeper the root, the harder to uproot them.

Many in the world are sex mad. Pornography is rampant. Homosexuality is probably greater now than at any time in history. Lust and fornication (sex outside marriage) are sin. To be able to resist sexual temptation, we need to know WHY we need to resist, as well as HOW to get the spiritual and emotional strength to resist. Only with God’s help we can resist. If we trust in the Truth behind God’s rules about sexual morality, then we have the foundation that we need to make our stand against temptation.

When you are tempted, God will provide a way out so that you can withstand it (1 Cor.10:13). Some other Scriptures which will help you to resist when you are tempted: Ps.1; 139:23-24; Mat.26:41; I Cor.10:12-14; Phil. 4:8; Jam.4:7; 2 Pet.2:9; 3:17.

The Bible is quite clear that lust, fornication and adultery are sin (Mat.5:27-28). Anyone who even looks at a woman (or man) with lust in their heart, has already committed adultery, in God’s eyes. Anyone who persists in sin will pay the horrifying price of experiencing eternal separation from God (2 Thes.1:8-9).

How to resist temptation practically?

Don’t be tempted to give up on your faith in God. There are some common sense steps that can help to avoid or lessen the temptation. If you are tempted when in a certain place or by certain people, it is only common sense NOT go to such a place or NOT to be with such people.

IF you allow Jesus to help, the Holy Spirit strengthens you and frees your mind when temptation strikes. You will be brought closer to God, when you go to Him in prayer and tell Him: “I can’t do it alone. I need You to help me with this.” This sincere and humble prayer will be heard by God and answered! Help will arrive! When we know the Truth about God, we know true spiritual freedom, joy and peace. There is nothing that can match this feeling! Remember this if you are tempted to give up on your faith in God. Pray and believe, that He will answer your prayers and that He will grant you strength to resist and increase your faith (Luke 17:5). You will then be able to have spiritual victory.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Imitate Christ

John 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (KJV) . . . Jesus advises us to imitate His life and conduct, if we truly want to be free from all blindness of heart. We CANNOT have light of life without Jesus! Our main effort should be to study the life of Jesus and imitate it. His teaching is much more exceptional and worthwhile than the advice of all the saints put together. We are wise if we seek His strength and characteristics and His teachings. A first step in resisting temptation!

There are many today who hear the Gospel, but could care less. It goes in one ear and out the other! They do not have the Spirit of Christ. If we really want to understand the Words of Christ, we must pattern our life after Him. If we are proud and lack humility, we displease our Awesome Triune God! http://www.hisservants.org/books_our_awesome_triune_god.html

A great woldly education does NOT make a person holy and just. Only a righteous life makes us pleasing to God. Even if we knew the whole Bible by heart; if we did not obey God’s Words on how to live, and lived without grace and the love of God, what would it profit us? We must really love God and serve Him willingly. This is wisdom . . . seeking the Kingdom of Heaven through contempt of the world. It is foolish to seek and trust in riches that perish. It is also foolish to lust for honor and glory and be puffed up with pride. It is foolish to fill the lusts of the body and to desire things for which we shall be severely punished later. It is foolish to want a long life but care little about a well-spent life. It is foolish to be concerned with the present only and not to make provision for eternity. It is foolish to love temporal, worldly things and not be concerned about the eternal future.

Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: [20] But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: [21] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (KJV) . . . “The eye is not satisfied with seeing nor is the ear filled with hearing” (Ecc.1:8). We must turn our hearts from the love of visible, worldly things and be concerned about eternal, invisible things! If we follow our own evil passions and give in to temptation, we are stained with sin and we lose our good standing with God.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Have a Humble Opinion of Self

Worldly knowledge does little or no good to the soul. He who concerns himself about other things than those which lead to salvation is very unwise. A high education does NOT satisfy the soul; it is a good, right life that eases the mind and cleanses our conscience. Don’t ever be proud because of your learning, talent or skill. Instead, be modest because of the talent given you. Don’t ever place yourself above anyone else, for there are many much more learned, much more cultured than you. It is good for God’s TRUE children to be content to be unknown and considered as nothing (1 Cor.1:8-25), like the apostle Paul (Eph.3:8). To humble self is the best advice. To think of oneself as nothing, and always to think well and highly of others is wise. If you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, don’t ever think yourself better . . . for it is only by the grace of God that it is not you! We all are frail. Don’t be afraid to admit that none is more frail than yourself.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
The Truth

Ignorance of God’s Truth . . . Will it be held against us on Judgment Day? People neglect spiritual things, for they do not think they are profitable and necessary in this life. Many think spiritual things are not related to this life here on Earth. That is absolute stupidity! People have eyes, but do not see (Isa.44:18; Mat.13:15-16). God’s TRUE children enjoy internal peace (John 14:27), because they are content with what God has given them.
http://www.godcannotlie.org/true_children_of_god.htm

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (KJV) . . . Conversation is lifestyle. People have more trouble and misery with their uncontrolled desires and lusts, than any other thing. Our purpose in life should be to have victory over self, to become stronger spiritually each day, to advance in righteousness and have a closer relationship with our Saviour, Jesus Christ. We cannot do any of these without His help! Every person must come to the knowledge of this Truth IF they are to succeed in this life on Earth. Each of us must know deep down that without His help, we are nothing and can do nothing to overcome temptation (Phil.4:13). Humble understanding of self is a sure path to God and His help.

On Judgment Day, Jesus shall not ask how much worldly education we had or how much we had in our bank account; but what we did to advance the cause of Christ; not how well people spoke of us, but how well we have lived and served Him and spoke of Him! What was our motive? Were we willing servants? Where are all the proud and mighty ones? Where are all the rich and famous, and the masters of learning? The world remembers them no more! During this life on Earth, the vast majority of all those the world looked up to, will end up in the Lake of Fire (Rev.20_15) because they refused to accept Jesus as their Saviour and Lord. This my friend, is the Truth. How quickly the glory of this world passes away! (1 John 2:17). Millions shall perish because of vain worldly knowledge and not caring about God. They are vain in their own conceits because they choose to be proud and great rather than humble and meek. In God’s eyes, only the person who is righteous and has godly love is truly great (Mat.22:37-40). Reading God’s Word will bring Truth to you quickly! Truth is to be sought in reading the Bible. Every part must be read in the spirit in which it was written. God speaks to us without regard for persons. If we want to profit from it, we must read with humility and faith, and never act like a ‘know it all’. We should seek wisdom from God’s Word willingly, take it in (eat) the Words (Ps.119:103; Rev.10:9-10). For ALL God’s Word is as a lamp unto our feet (Ps.119:105). Reading and absorbing (digesting) God’s Word is one of the wisest things we can do, and is a powerful deterrent of submitting to temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Uncontrolled Lusts

Lusting for something (anything) makes you anxious and uncomfortable. A proud and greedy person never rests, for the more they have (money, power, sex), the more they want! On the other hand, the person who is poor in spirit (Mat.5:3) and humble of heart (Mat.11:29) has continual peace (John 14:27). A proud, arrogant person is tempted and quickly gives in to evils. His spirit is weak, and inclined to worldly things. He lusts for earthly treasures (Mat.6:19-21), and it angers him to do without them; so he is easily provoked if criticized.

Many people think they can have peace if they fulfill their lusts, but the truth is, true peace of heart, is found only in resisting temptation, not in giving in to them. There is no peace in the carnal man (unbelievers), but there is great peace in the heart of a righteous, godly man (John 14:27). So many verses tell us that only with God can we have peace (Ro.5:1; 8:6; 15:13,33; 16:20; 1 Co.1:3; 2 Co.1:2; 13:11; Gal.1:3; 5:22; Ep.1:2; 2:14; 6:23; Phil.1:2; 4:7,9; Col.1:2,20; 3:15; 1 Thes.1:1; 2 Thes.1:2; 3:16; 2 Tim.1:2; 2:22; Tit.1:4; Heb.13:20; 2 Pet.1:2). Unbelievers have NO inward peace!

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Avoid False Hope and Pride

Foolish is the man who puts his trust in men, and created things (Jer.17:5). We should NEVER be ashamed to serve others for the love of Christ Jesus and to seem poor in this world’s eyes (2 Cor.4:5). We should NEVER be self-sufficient but always place our trust in God, and rely on His grace (2 Cor.12:9). We should NEVER place our trust in our own learning or in the craftiness of any man, but always in the abundant grace of God, Who helps the humble and humbles the proud (Jam.4:6,10). If you have wealth, it is not a sin; there have been and are some godly, righteous, wealthy people . . . but you must NEVER glory in your riches, or in friends because they are powerful or famous, but only glory in Almighty God, Who gives all things and Who desires above all to give Himself to us (1 Cor.1:31). You should NEVER boast of your personal stature or of physical beauty, that is pride! You should NEVER take pride in your talent or ability, for all you have is given to you by God. NEVER think you are better than someone else, for in God’s eyes, you may be worse! NEVER take pride in any of your good deeds, for God's judgments differ greatly from those of men (Isa.55:8-9), and what pleases us, so often displeases Him. If there is good in you, see more good in others. This keeps you humble. It does no harm to think of yourself less than anyone else, but it is very dangerous to think you are better than even one person. God’s humble children live in continuous peace, but the hearts of the proud have envy and repeated anger. Remaining humble is a major step in resisting temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Shun Over-Familiarity

We should not open our hearts to every person. WHY? The Bible tells us.
Proverbs 2:11-15 Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: 12 To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things; 13 Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness; 14 Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked; 15 Whose ways are crooked, and they froward in their paths: (KJV)
Proverbs 22:24-25 Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: [25] Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul. (KJV)
Proverbs 4:14 Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. (KJV)
We should not sweet-talk the rich, and should not desire to socialize with the famous and those in power. God’s TRUE children should keep company with the humble, plain folk; with godly, honest people, and with them speak of edifying things. Romans 14:17-19 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. [18] For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. [19] Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. We should seek a close relationship and closeness, only with God. (KJV) . . . We
should have godly love for ALL people, but getting overly familiar with ALL people is not wise. Sometimes we may think we please others by our presence . . . but instead we displease them by our faults. Remember that the wrong “friends” can easily keep us from resisting temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Be Obedient and Submissive to God

Luke 11:28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. (KJV) . . . Do you really see what Jesus is saying here? “The Word of God” NOT some cult doctrine (Mat.15:9). It NEVER pleases God, nor spiritually profits anyone in the least, if they trust in the foolishness of man-made laws! We are to hear or read God’s Word, and keep it, do it, OBEY it! Only then can we please God.

1 Pet.1:14-15 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: [15] But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; (KJV) . . . We must obey God because we do NOT want to slip back into our old ways, doing evil when we knew no better. We must be serious and level headed in our opinions and in what we do and say. We must be humble and honest in our judgment of ourselves. A strong faith in the grace of God, should always harmonize with our actions and words. Holiness is the desire and duty of every TRUE child of God. It must be in all our affairs, in every condition, and towards all people. We must especially watch and pray against the sins to which we are inclined. Each person is tempted in different ways.

Phil. 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: (KJV) . . . The example of our Lord Jesus Christ should always be set before us. We must imitate Him in His life, if we want His help when we need it in our life.
James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. (KJV) . . . The perfect law of liberty is the Gospel rule of life . . . as shown in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat.5:48). If we strive to become perfect (mature), one day we will be perfect, even as Christ is perfect (1 John 3:2-3).

God’s children must aim at a higher standard of holiness than was usually understood under the law. The standard of LOVE actually takes the place of the letter of the law (Jam.2:8,10,12; John 8:31-36; 15:14-15). The Law is NOT made void, but instead is fulfilled (Mat.22:36-40).

James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (KJV) . . . The world (unbelievers) are enlisted under Satan’s banner of pride and envy. HOW do God’s children resist his temptations? The verse above gives us the answer! SUBMIT to God! Unless we first submit (surrender, give in, yield, cooperate) to God, we do NOT have a chance against Satan and his temptations! Most people do not like the word submit. To me it simply means to cooperate voluntarily with God and His will! Once we submit, what are our weapons of resistance? Faith, humble prayers, Bible study, and heavenly wisdom . . . These are our weapons to resist temptation! Once we "submit" and "resist," the devil will flee! My friend, this is a Promise from God! Claim it!

1 Peter 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: (KJV) . . . It is our character and nature as God’s children to obey our Father. The former lusts, were characteristic of our former state of ignorance of God. Our evil lusts come from our original (physical) birth inherited from our parents. Obedience can come only from our second (spiritual) birth, which comes from God, our heavenly Father. (John 1:12-13; 3:3-8).

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Avoid Idle Talk

What is idle talk? Idle = barren, empty, futile, useless, vain, worthless, etc. To me, this would include backbiting, gossip, false testimony, any falsehoods, lies . . . But what about something worse? What about blasphemy, cursing, foul jokes, etc.? Personally, I think it includes ALL these. What does Jesus say?
Mat.12:36-37 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. [37] For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (KJV) . . . Jesus’ Words. People might say, "It was nothing.” or “We meant no harm.” But, Jesus will say, "It was NOT nothing, and on Judgment Day, it will NOT be treated as nothing.” Words are the key to the heart. Everything starts in the heart! However idle they may seem to you, ALL words will be taken into account, whether good or bad, in determining character on Judgment Day. Scary, isn’t it? Do all you can to resist any idle talk. Bad habits and indifference to spiritual progress do much to remove the guard from our tongue, whereas devout words on spiritual matters, helps our spiritual progress, especially when persons of the same mind and spirit associate together in God. Again I say: choose your earthly friends wisely. If you hang around with someone who curses or blasphemes all the time, soon you will do the same. BEWARE!!!
What will Jesus judge at the Judgment Seat of Christ?
http://www.hisservants.org/judgment_seat_h_s.htm

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Caution in Action

We should never yield to every urge and idea that comes our way, but consider all things carefully, going to God in prayer and asking that everything that we do is in His will. Sometimes we are so vulnerable that we believe and speak evil of others instead of good. We as God’s children should NOT believe every talebearer bringing gossip, because we know that human weakness is responsive to evil and often appears in our speech. We should NOT believe everything people say, and we should NOT spread any gossip we hear. Worth repeating: if we keep company with a person who has a filthy mouth, we too will soon be spouting curses, dirty jokes and blasphemy. BEWARE! We should be wise and careful. A righteous life makes us wise according to God and gives us knowledge to resist temptation. Always remember that the more humble we are and the more fully that we submit to God, the wiser, stronger and more at peace we will be in all things.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Troubles Are Not All Bad

If everything always went smooth, life would be boring and we would not appreciate the good days near as much. It doesn’t hurt for us to have trials and troubles at times. It doesn’t hurt for us to suffer opposition at times, or to be misjudged by people even when we do well and mean well. These things humble us and shelter us from vainglory. When people give us no credit for good we’ve done, when they do not think well of us, it is then we are more likely to seek God, Who sees our hearts.

We should root ourselves so firmly in God and His Word that we really won’t need the comfort and support of men. When we are afflicted, tempted and tormented by evil thoughts, we should realize that our greatest need is God, for without Him we can do no good (John 15:1-5). When we are saddened by pain and suffering, we grieve and pray. We need to fully understand that perfect security and complete peace will never be found on this Earth. Resist the temptation to think that troubles are all bad. They are NOT all bad! They teach us patience and if we are wise, they bring us closer to God. Resist the temptation of running AWAY from God during trials, instead, run TO God for help. You will be surprised at just how little those troubles seem, when God is there to help!

RESISTING TEMPTATION
NO One Exempt From Temptation

As long as we live in this world, we will NOT escape suffering or temptation. NO one is exempt! We ALL must guard against temptation, keeping watch lest the devil, who never sleeps but goes about seeking whom he may devour (1 Pet.5:8). No one can be altogether free from temptation. Temptations can be troublesome and severe, but as stated above, can be useful to us, because they humble us, purify us and teach us. ALL saints pass through many temptations and trials, and were/are profited by them. But those who do not resist, fall by the wayside.

We will never be safe from temptations as long as we live, for they come from within us . . . for in sin were we born. When one temptation or trial passes, another one rises up! We will always have something to suffer because we have lost the original state of blessedness. We cannot win simply by trying to run away. Only by patience, true humility and trust in God can we ever become stronger than our enemies. We can’t just avoid or ignore temptations, we must uproot them or we make no progress, for they come back, stronger and fiercer than before. Only in patience and long-suffering can we overcome them, and never alone, but with the help of God.

The beginning of all temptation lies in a wavering mind and little faith in God’s help. We are like a rudderless ship in a violent storm without help from the Lord! Sometimes when temptation strikes, we do not know how we can stand. We must be particularly alert at the beginning of a temptation, for the enemy is much more easy to conquer then, than if he is allowed access to our mind. First, a tiny thought comes to mind; and if we do NOT stop it immediately, it is followed by a strong imagination, and finally we give in. Temptation is NOT sin! But when we give in . . . that IS sin! The sooner we stop Satan’s attack on us, the better!

The longer we delay in resisting, the weaker we become as each day passes, while the strength of the enemy grows in leaps and bounds! We should not despair when we are tempted, but pray to God all the more fervently that He may help us. Remember that God will never give us more than we can bear!
1 Cor.10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (KJV) . . . If it seems as though God has shut the door of escape . . . Look around! He has opened a window somewhere!

The world looks on TRUE believers as weak. We are NOT weak. For we have some powerful weapons to help us! Faith, humble prayers, Bible study, patience and heavenly wisdom . . . These are our weapons to resist temptation! USE THEM!!!

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Consider Your Relationship With Jesus

When temptation strikes, turn your attention to Jesus! Rely completely on your fellowship with the Lord. Rely completely on the huge benefit that your submission to Christ Jesus gives you! You can be victorious over the temptation! When you walk the strait and narrow road with Jesus (Mat.7:13-14), His awesome Light (John 1:4,9; 3:19; 8:12) allows you to see the temptation early. You then can “nip it in the bud” as the old saying goes. Only when we are enlightened by a close fellowship with Jesus, can we be completely submissive to Him and, through devoted love, we can rise above all human strength and wisdom, because we have the help of God. Remember, to be submissive is to cooperate voluntarily with Jesus!

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Works Done in Love

Anything that we do in this life, should be done because we love the Lord. Anything we do to others, be it good or bad, we do to Jesus! Acts 9:4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? (KJV) . . . When Saul persecuted Christians before he was saved, he was actually persecuting Jesus! Also see Mat.25:34-46.

Without love, no external works are of any value, but anything done in love, no matter how small and trivial, is fruitful (1 Cor.13:3). I think that God weighs the love with which we act, instead of the deed itself (Luke 7:47). Love makes us do much. Love makes us do a thing well. Love makes us serve Jesus rather than thinking of me, me, me all the time.

In today’s world, love is most often considered sex. That is NOT the love that Jesus is talking about! Jesus is speaking of godly love. True and perfect love seeks nothing for self! True and perfect love seeks all things for the glory of God. If we have true and perfect love, we envy NO one, because we want NO personal pleasure, NO rejoicing in self; instead we desire the glory of God above all things. We should credit all things to God, from Whom all things proceed as from a fountain. If we have true and perfect love, for God and others (Mat.22:36-40), we realize that all things of Earth are vanity! And when we realize this Truth, it helps tremendously in resisting temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Enduring the Faults of Others

We ALL have faults! And until we receive our new bodies, like Jesus’ Body (Phil.3:21), we will continue to have faults and we will continue to sin. Maybe the faults of others, are temptations to us. Maybe the faults of others are God’s way of trying OUR patience and love. Maybe we should pray that God will help us bear these faults calmly. If we warn someone once or twice, and the person does not improve, we should not argue with them but commit the matter to God, for God knows how to turn evil to good (Gen.50:20). We must try to bear patiently with the faults of others (Jam.5:16), because we too have faults which those around us must endure. We want others to be perfect, BUT, do we really correct our faults as we should? God has wisely ordained that we learn to put up with other's faults, for there is no man without fault, no man without burden, no man sufficient to himself, no man wise enough on his own. We must support one another, console one another, help, counsel, and advise one another, for the measure of every man's goodness is revealed in time of adversity. Adversity does not weaken us, but instead shows what and who we really are.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
A Simple Life

If we want peace and harmony in our lives, we must learn to break our will in many things. To live a simple life, to keep from complaining, and to hang in there faithfully until death is no small thing (Mat.10:22). If we live our lives imitating Jesus, as we should, being meek and humble and not coveting worldly things, we will be hated, just as Jesus was hated. If we imitate Jesus, they hated Him, they will hate us too (John 15:18). But, my friend, there is NO better company anywhere! IF we endure until the end, we shall find eternal happiness. To persevere in living right, we must know that we are a pilgrim, an exile on this Earth (Heb.11:13). If we want to be righteous, we must be content to seem a like a fool for the sake of Christ. Never be concerned about what the world (unbelievers) thinks of you, be concerned only about what God thinks of you! When we hang in there, we always have access to God in prayer when we need Him to help in temptations. If we seek anything but God alone and the salvation of our soul, we will find only trouble and grief, and if we do not consider ourselves to be the least, the servant of all, we will not have peace for long. As God’s children, we must serve people, not rule anyone. We cannot stand firm unless we humble ourselves before God. Only then will He help us when we call on Him to help in our times of temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
The Example of the Saints

When we think about the examples set for us by the saints who have passed on, who possessed the light of true spiritual maturity . . . we see just how little we do. We cannot begin to compare our lives with theirs. Those saints served the Lord in hunger, thirst, cold, nakedness, work, weariness, vigils, fasts, prayers, holy meditations, persecutions and many afflictions (2 Cor.11:22-29; Heb.11: 36-38). What severe trials they suffered! The Apostles, and martyrs down through the ages, were determined to follow in the footsteps of Christ! They were willing to die, if need be, and many did die that they might have eternal life (John 3:15-18). Their lives were strict and isolated, they cared not what the world thought of them. Long and severe temptations they suffered, they were often tormented by the enemy! Can you imagine the numerous and passionate prayers they offered to God? What about the painstaking fasts they observed? Their zeal and love for spiritual perfection persevered, to say the least. They fought a great battle to master evil habits and temptations! They were despised by the world, but in the eyes of God they were precious and beloved. They lived in true humility and simple obedience; they walked in love and patience. The example they left behind still bears witness that they indeed were holy and righteous men who fought bravely and conquered their temptations. We today are lukewarm and thoughtless in our lives of luxury. We lose our original passion so quickly and become weary of life because we are lazy! We should consider these servants of God. It would help us to resist temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
The Ways of a Righteous Person

The life of a TRUE child of God should abound in the characteristics of Jesus. We should be on the inside, what we profess to be on the outside, because He who sees within us is God. We should not be hypocrites. Jesus had much to say about hypocrites, none of it good, see chapter 23 in Matthew. We should depend on the grace of God rather than on their own wisdom in living life on Earth. In Him, we should confide every undertaking, because man proposes but God disposes. God's way is not man's way.
Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. (KJV) . . . If we ever abandon our time with the Lord, it will be harmful to us. Both our inward and outward lives must be closely watched, for both are important to our perfection (maturity). It is wise to examine ourselves each night as to what we have said, done and thought, that day, for it is possible we may have offended God and those around us. We must remember that we are weak and so capable of offending God and our fellow man, and not yet worthy of the great glory that shall in due time be revealed to us.
Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. (KJV) . . . We should always be watching how we live, for we know NOT when Jesus will come.
Matthew 25:13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. (KJV) . . . To resist temptation, we must be ever watchful of how we live. We ought also be a spiritual ‘watchman’ to others (Eze.33:6).

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Love, Solitude and Silence

We should pursue a regular time of ‘togetherness’ with the Lord, a time of personal worship, reading His Word and meditating on His awesome love and grace toward us. If you withdraw yourself from unnecessary talking and needless running around, stay away from listening to gossip and rumors, you will find abundant time for holy togetherness! Many great saints avoided the company of people and chose to serve God in solitude. We cannot concentrate completely on God when we are surrounded with the hustle bustle of people all around us. And it is always better to be silent than to speak too much. Being alone is easier than having to be on guard while with people. If we want to live the inner, spiritual life we must be isolated, with Jesus, away from the crowd. Jesus went off by Himself (Mat.6:6; Luke 4:42; 5:16; Mk.1:35-39; 14:32-42). Moses did (Deut.9:25). Jacob did (Gen.28:11; 32:24). David did (Ps.55:7; 17). Jeremiah did (Jer.9:2; 15:17). Daniel did (Dan.6:10). Hannah did (1 Sam.1:13). Samuel did (1 Sam.15:11). Elijah did (1 Kings 17:19-20). The apostles did (Acts 10:9; 3:1). Shouldn’t we take this into consideration?
What great peace and tranquillity we would have if we would cut ourselves off from worldly worries and thought only of things pertaining to God, things helpful to our soul, and placed ALL our trust in God. No one deserves the comfort of Heaven unless they firmly mourn for their sin (Mat.5:4). If you really want true sorrow of heart, you must seek solitude and silence, and shut out the uproar of the world. Only then will you find what you cannot find in busy, noisy world; peace, contentment, feeling the awesome Presence of God. Your time alone with the Lord will soon become a very special time with a most Special Friend. It will be something that you look forward to and it will be great comfort. In the silence, your soul will progress in the characteristics of Christ, and you will learn many hidden Truths of Scripture. As your soul grieves over your shortcomings and things you have done to displease God, you become more humble, and closer in your relationship with the Lord Jesus. You should never lust for some thing you are not permitted to have. 1 John 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (KJV) . . . Carnal joy may start out sweet but in the end brings utter remorse and if not stopped, judgment. Close the door on self and call Jesus close to you. This special time with the Lord gives you added strength and wisdom to resist temptation.

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Sorrow of Heart and Soul

If you want to make progress in righteousness, you must live in the fear of the Lord.
Proverbs 23:17 Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day long. (KJV) . . . We should never be envious of sinful people; instead reverence for the Lord should be our concern. Unbelievers seem to have much freedom. Don’t ever be envious of that. Discipline your mind, shun worldliness. Sorrow of heart (mourning for sin, Mat.5:4) opens the door to many blessings. Practicing sin, or continuing on in sin (1 John 5:18) closes the door to great blessings you could have.

The vast majority of people NEVER consider the many dangers to their soul. The vast majority of people NEVER consider ETERNITY! Think about it, my friend!
http://www.hisservants.org/books_living_with_eternity_in_mind.html

They do NOT care about their sinful nature and have NO real sorrow in their heart or soul. They indulge in barren laughter when they should weep. They think that they are free to do as they wish and never think that judgment for sin awaits EVERY person who has ever lived. Yes! God has given us a free will to make choices in life. But He also gave us a mind to know right from wrong. No freedom is true (John 8:32,36) and no joy is genuine unless it is founded in the fear (reverence) of the Lord.

Proverbs 28:14 Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief. (KJV) . . . A wise person considers themselves unworthy of any divine comfort and deserving instead of much tribulation. When a TRUE child of God is sorry for sin, their heart and soul mourns and weeps. The closer they examine themselves, the more they grieve. The sins and wickedness in which we get entangled, make us realize just how unworthy of Heaven we really are. If it were not for our Saviour and Lord, Christ Jesus (1 Cor.1:30), we would not have the chance of a snowball in Hell. Our righteousnesses are as filthy rags (Isa.64:6) to God. We must have the Blood of Jesus covering our sins for God the Father to look at us. Without Jesus, we are God’s enemy (Rom.5:10).

I think a person would correct themselves more seriously if they thought more of an early death than a long life. And if people would seriously consider in their heart the future agony of Hell, that the Bible so clearly teaches, I think they would willingly endure labor and trouble in serving the Lord, and would fear no hardship. But since these thoughts never pierce the heart of an unbeliever, and since they lust only for worldly pleasures, they stay cold and indifferent to God, who is the only One who can save them from Hell. The soul of a person is spiritual, and it remains lifeless without God! This life on Earth is given to us as a gift from God. I really believe that it is our time to decide WHERE we shall spend eternity . . . Heaven OR Hell. After death, there are NO second chances to decide. Only judgment awaits!
Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: (KJV) . . . Where will Judge Jesus send you on Judgment Day?

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Thoughts on Man’s Misery

No matter where you are, no matter where you go, you will never be completely at peace or completely happy unless you turn your life over to God. I truly believe this! So why be troubled when things do not go as you had planned? NO one will ever have all the things that they desire. Not you, not me, not any man on Earth. All people, from pauper to king, will suffer trial and anguish in some way. Who then, is better off? Many unbelievers think that the rich and famous are better off. But, are they really? In God’s eyes, they are not. Unless a person seriously considers Judgment Day, they are thinking like a fool.

We ALL must lift up our eyes to the riches of Heaven and realize that material, worldly goods are nothing in eternity. What good would a million dollars do a person in the Lake of Fire? It could not buy even ONE drop of water to cool the tongue (Luke 16:24). Internal happiness in this life does not come from abundant worldly things, nor will it be so in our next life . . . be it Heaven or Hell! The more we desire a close spiritual life with the Lord, the more bitter this present life will seem, because we see so clearly the defects, the corruption, and the weakness of human nature.

The inner man (eternal soul, spirit) is burdened in this world. But, think of how many who love this worldly, corruptible life. How foolish and faithless are those, who are so absorbed in visible, temporary worldly things of today, that they desire nothing except carnal pleasure! TRUE believers of Christ should not look to what pleases the body or to the things that are the latest fad. Their hope and aim must be centered on ETERNAL things (Tit.1:2). Their desire should be the lasting and invisible realm of eternity.

We all must pass through troubled waters and fire (Isa.43:2) before coming to rest. As long as we live in this fragile body, we will not be free from sin nor will we live without weariness and sorrow. We must be patient and wait for the grace of God until temptations pass (2 Cor.5:4). Great is the frailty of mankind which is so prone to evil! Today we confess our sins and tomorrow we again commit the same sins which we confessed yesterday (Rom.7:14-17). One moment we resolve to be cautious of lurking sins, but before the hour is up, we act as though we had made no resolution at all.

Because of our frailty, we must humble ourselves and never think we are great; because in God’s eyes, we are not. We cannot have any joy or peace or rest if we are not living an obedient, righteous life. We must stay close to Jesus or we are doomed. We cannot resist temptation without Jesus!

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Thoughts about Death

Soon our lives here on Earth shall end. Have you seriously considered what shall be in store for you elsewhere? Your soul is eternal and shall spend eternity in one of two places . . . Heaven OR Hell. That, my friend, is FACT whether you believe it or not. Hardness of heart sees only to the present, instead of preparing for that which is to come! In every deed and every thought, we should act as though we could die this very day, because we know not when our time is. It is much better to avoid sin than to fear death and what shall follow. Tomorrow is uncertain; not one of us know if we even have such a thing as a tomorrow.
James 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. (KJV)

What good is it to live a long life, if a person keeps on in sin? Their sins just keep piling high, and God does not forget even one in the unbeliever’s account (Rev.20:12). My friend, Judgment Day looms for you . . . and me. ALL of us, believers (God’s children) and unbelievers (Satan’s children, 1 John 3:10) shall one day stand before the awesome and majestic Judge (1 Cor.3:11-15; Rev.20:11-15).

Wise is he, in God’s eyes, who keeps eternity on his mind and prepares for it every day. We should always be ready, living so that death will NEVER take us by surprise . . . coming when we are not fully prepared.
Matthew 24:44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. (KJV) . . . We do not know when we will die, nor do we know when Jesus will come in the clouds to take the church home (1 Thes.4:13-18). Whichever it is, we will NOT have any more time to prepare. When your last moment comes, you will have quite a different opinion of the life you lived, and you will have deep regrets about your carefree and sinful lifestyle.

We should strive, NOW in this life, to be what we want to be when death comes for us. Contempt for pride and worldliness, a desire to daily increase in righteousness, a steady and eager faith, gladly accepting discipline when we go wrong, willing to obey, self-denial, and enduring hardships for the love and cause of Christ . . . all these will give us great hope of a death we will not dread.

You should NEVER put off the care of your soul until later? For you do NOT know IF there will be a LATER for you! Strive for a healthy soul! If you don’t care for your own welfare now, NO one will care when you are gone, that is certain. I cannot state strongly enough that the present is very precious! TODAY is the day of salvation; NOW is the acceptable time (2 Cor.6:2). After death, it will be way too late to think about salvation (Heaven).

Don’t let Satan tempt you into thinking you have a lot of time. His best weapon is getting people to wait! Waiting to accept Christ is one of the biggest mistakes people make. Don’t wait to learn more about God and how He wants you to live. Don’t listen to Satan. He is WRONG! Resist the temptation of waiting! Run to Jesus NOW!

Eternal life is available to ALL people! No matter what you have done in the past, God can and will forgive you IF you accept His One and Only Way of salvation, Jesus! IF you refuse, the time will come when you will want just a few more minutes to make amends. God may not grant it, because your time is gone.

Learn to die to the world now, so that you may begin to live with Christ for ever (John 5:24). Learn to reject worldliness now, so when death comes, you will be ready to freely go to Him.
Reap for yourself the spiritual riches of eternal life while you still have time (Mat.6:19-21). If you are wise, salvation of your soul should be your #1 priority! You should really be concerned about your salvation. Care only for the things of God.
2 Cor. 5:6-8 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: [7] (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) [8] We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. (KJV) . . . All God’s TRUE children would much rather be gone away from these bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. Faith is for living in this world. Sight is for living in Heaven. It is our duty, and is in our best interest, to walk by faith, till we live by sight. My prayer for you is: Trust Jesus!

RESISTING TEMPTATION
Judgment and God’s Punishment of Sin

I am afraid that many will not read this one! I hope I am wrong.

In all that we do, we must consider the end. We all shall stand before the strict but ever so righteous Judge, from Whom nothing is hidden and Who will pronounce judgment on us all. He will accept neither bribes nor excuses from anyone. What answer will you give to God Who knows ALL your sins? We all must consider Judgment Day, when no person shall be excused or defended by another because every person will have enough to do to answer for himself.

It is better for believers to atone for sin now and cut away our corrupt defects, than to keep them in store for Judgment Day. The more we spare ourselves now, and the more we give in to temptation to satisfy the flesh, the harder the procedure shall be.

Unbelievers will be grievously punished for the things in which he has sinned. I read once: “The lazy will be driven with burning prongs, gluttons tormented with unspeakable hunger and thirst; the lust-loving will be bathed in burning pitch and foul brimstone; the envious will howl in their grief like mad dogs. Every vice will have its own proper punishment. The proud will be faced with every confusion and the covetous will know the most degrading want. One hour of suffering there will be worse than a hundred years of the most severe penalty here.”

In this life people can rest from work and enjoy the comfort of friends, but the eternally damned have no rest, no comfort, just eternal agony. Considering this, we believers must take care and repent of our sins now (1 John 1:8-9), so that on Judgment Day we may rest securely with those who are blessed. The poor in spirit and the humble ones will have great confidence, but the proud and arrogant will know only with fear. On Judgment Day those who were fools for Christ’s sake (1 Cor.3:18; 4:10) in this world and were scorned for Christ, will then show that they have instead, been very wise. Every trial borne in patience, every good deed that seemed to go unseen, will be rewarded by Judge Jesus.

The righteous shall rejoice; but the Christ rejecters shall mourn. Persevering love, faith and patience will count more than ALL the power or riches in this world. Willing obedience will rank higher than ALL worldly wisdom. A clean conscience will gratify the heart far more than the highest college degree. And a contempt for riches will carry more weight than all the treasures on Earth.

As you read this, are you really considering what I am saying? Things in the eternal world shall be OPPOSITE of what the world today thinks. Go to the Sermon on the Mount . . . the Beatitudes (Mat.5:3-12). Read it carefully. I am telling you here what Jesus speaks of there. PLEASE consider eternity.

Two things bring terror to the wicked. In our day, people have been so brainwashed by our society that many of them try to blot it out of their minds; but if they give any thought to it at all, the two things which bring terror to the heart of the wicked person are the omnipresence and the immutability of God. God is omnipresent; that is, He is everywhere. Even death cannot separate you from Him. You cannot get away from God! (Psalm 139:7-10). And the immutability of God means that God never changes. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb.13:8). . . . These two truths are a great comfort to God’s children, but they frighten the wicked.

To the TRUE child of God the omnipresence of God assures him that God will never leave him. The Lord Jesus said, “… I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb. 13:5). How wonderful that is! Also He said, “… him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (John 6:37). When He receives you, He receives you for eternity. No one can take you out of His hand; and, if you are in His hand, you are there for ever (John 10:27-30; 14:15-17)!

Think about this: If you are a person who cannot suffer much now, how will you be able to endure eternal torment? If you cannot stand any pain in this life, how will you be able to stand eternal agony? If just a little suffering makes you intolerable now, what will the Lake of Fire do to you? If you cannot stand the heat above 70 degrees in this life, and must have air conditioning where ever you are, how will you tolerate the Fires of Hell? NO air conditioning there!

I am very concerned about people’s souls. When a person is sick, they go to a doctor. Doctors heal physically. But very few people consider the health of their eternal soul. I am NOT a doctor. I CANNOT heal anyone physically. Nor can I, myself, heal anyone spiritually either. BUT. . . I can refer you to the Greatest Physician ever! Jesus can heal your soul. You do NOT need to suffer the eternal results of a sick, corrupt soul that is bound for Hell. God does not want you to go to Hell (2 Pet.3:9), and neither do I.

The sobering truth is; you CANNOT have the best of both worlds, this one now and the eternal one to come. You cannot lust for, then grab with gusto the sinful pleasures of this world and afterward reign with Christ. If your life up to now, has been full of riches and pleasures, what good would any of that do, if today you should die? All is vanity, except to love God and to serve Him alone. Anyone who loves God with all his heart (Mat.22:37), has no fear of death or punishment or Judgment Day or Hell, because perfect love (1 John 4:18) guarantees our access to God, and casts out all fear. But, anyone who delights in sin . . . fears death and judgment. I know that I did before I was saved. Jesus took all that fear away! Now, I am ready to go when He is ready for me.

Love does not as restrain you from evil, but the fear of Hell does. Anyone who does not fear (reverence, respect) God cannot continue long in a right life, but will quickly fall into the snares of the devil. To resist temptation, you NEED God!

Hell DOES exist! http://www.judgmentcoming.org/j_c_hell_is_it_there.htm

AMENDING YOUR LIFE

TRUE believers should strive earnestly to be right with God, for in a short time we will receive the reward of our labors. We neither are afraid, nor do we grieve when we think of the hour of death. Our light labor now, will soon be replaced with rest and joy.

If we continue faithfully and diligently in our service to Him, God will without a doubt be faithful and generous to us in rewards. We must continue to have hope of salvation (Tit.1:2), but never be inactive and proud. One thing keeps many from improving their lives, and that is dreading the difficulty, the effort of the battle. There is no doubt about it, living a righteous life in obedience to God is NOT easy! (Mat.8:17-22; 10:26-31). It goes against what the world thinks and does.

Two specific things, can further our improvement in amending our lives: (1.) to withdraw completely from vices to which our sinful nature is inclined, and (2.) to work extra hard to install or place good graces which are most needed. Most people neglect both these “things.”

We must guard against the faults which we see in others that often displease us, because so often, the faults we despise in others, are the same ones that also tempt us. Instead, if we see a good example, we should imitate it.

We should remember our purpose in life; eternal life in Heaven with Jesus! Let us always keep in mind the character of the Crucified One. No matter how many years you have walked the path of Light with Jesus, the end result before us all is to be more like Him! We can always improve, no matter how old we are or how long we have been believers. We do not want to be ashamed, when He comes for us. 1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. (KJV)

We should never want something better than Jesus . . . because my friend . . . there is NOTHING better than Jesus! If the Crucified One is in your heart, you have something that the world (unbelievers) does NOT have (Rom.8:9). What an awesome Lord we serve! We can reach a point in life where we seek no comfort from any other, except our Lord. When you reach that place . . . you are content, come what may! No matter what may happen, you can rejoice because you know you are in His Holy Hands.

John 10:27-30 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: [28] And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. [29] My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. [30] I and my Father are one. (KJV)

My friend, once you are saved, you are always saved! This Passage is just one of many that proves it! When we place ourselves entirely into the Hands of God, we are safe and secure. The closer that we get to Him, the more faith we have in Him, and the more secure we feel. This is why we must amend (correct and improve) our life and get to be more like Jesus with each passing day. I, myself, desperately need that close fellowship with my Saviour. I must have it!

We must always remember our end here on Earth may come tomorrow . . . maybe even today! And we must never forget that lost time, be it idle or evil, never returns so that we can modify it. It is water under the bridge, and cannot be retrieved. Beware of growing lukewarm, for that is just the beginning of evil. It is so necessary for us to resist vices and lusts. If we don’t make an attempt to resist small temptations, HOW can we ever resist the big ones? A wise man once said: “If we entertain temptations, soon they will be entertaining us.”

Satan is our biggest enemy! He struts around like a good angel of light, deceiving millions! Satan is really good at making sin SEEM attractive to us. He uses subtle tactics rather than clear cut ones, because camouflaged temptations are much more effective in deceiving well-intentioned believers. From the devil’s point of view, the safest road to Hell is a gradual one, not steep and rocky, but with a gentle, downhill slope, easy to walk on, with no sharp turns and no signs to let you know what’s ahead. Temptation is NOT a sin! Jesus was tempted! Big difference between Jesus and us though! He was tempted but NEVER gave in! Too often we give in. That is SIN!

Temptations come to the godly and ungodly alike. So, what is the difference? It is NOT the temptation, but instead the person’s response to it. We must understand that God is not responsible for tempting us. It is absolutely against His Holy character to lead anyone into sin. James 1:12-16 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. [13] Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: [14] But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. [15] Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. [16] Do not err, my beloved brethren. (KJV) . . . Sin originates both from the lusting of our sinful nature as well as from the devil. Blessed is a positive judgment by God on the person that means to be approved or to find approval. When God blesses us, He approves of us. So, God approves of our resisting temptation! Some new versions of the bible interpret blessed as happy. Happiness is temporary, blessedness is eternal! Do you really want His approval? OR, do you just want to be happy in this life on Earth? There is a BIG difference!

ALL temptations can be overcome by the power of God. We cannot do it, but He can! Christ showed us that sin can only be overcome by faith, prayer, fasting, studying the Word of God and trusting Him. The more in tune we are with the Word of God and Ways of the Lord, the more likely we are to be able to discern His voice from the enemy's in times of crisis.

Temptations come to all people daily, but God promises to give us strength and wisdom to overcome them. Ask Him today to give you discernment so that you can avoid the devil’s pitfalls. God has called you to a life of victory. Don't let anything or anyone stand in your way!

CHANGED

As I consider, my life gone by,
Christ Jesus, the King, I did deny.
Each day I continued, in wickedness,
Not once, did I e’er, Jesus confess.

But one sweet day, my Saviour found me,
Giving me, o’er my sin, victory!
Eyes that could not see, were open’d wide,
And He gave me His Spirit, to abide.

Shouting His praises, I now want to do,
I have an awesome feeling, thru’ and thru’.
I want ev’ry one, to feel this way,
Christ is how, we should start and end each day.

Ears that were stopped, now hear so well,
Christ spoke to me: “I’ll keep you from Hell.”
In great hope, I look forward to Heav’n,
And the mansion, that to me will be giv’n.

I am changed, to the new, from the old,
And one day I’ll walk, on that street of gold!
Thank You Lord! for all You have done for me,
I’ll be grateful, for eternity!
********************
By: His servant, Connie Kramer May 26, 2008 # 1177
Eph.2:1-10; 4:21-24; Rom. 6:5; Col. 2:13-15; 3:3-15; 2 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 6:15; Isa.25:8; 1 Cor.2:14; 15:54-57; 1 Jn. 5:4; Jn. 14:16; 1 Pet.1:3-4; Ps.103:2; Eph.1:3; Ps.104:1, 14; 107:8; 136:25; 148:1, 11-12; 145:21; Rev. 19:5; Jn. 1:5; Isa.29:10; Mat.6:23; Jn. 3:19-20; Rom.11:8; 2 Cor. 4:3-4; 1 John 2:9, 11; Eph.4:17-19; Ps.10:5; Isa.26:10; 28:7; 42:18; 56:10; 59:10; Jer.5:21; Lam.4:14; Eze.12:2; Zep.1:17; Mat. 5:12; 6:23; 8:34; 11:25; 13:13, 15; Tit.1:2; Jn. 14:1-3; Luke 10:20; Heb.4:9; 11:16; 12:23; 1 Pet. 1:4; Rev. 7:16-17; Rev. ch.21.

I Thank You

Help guide me, on roads where I should go,
Help me stay on, the strait and narrow.
All too oft, Satan tempts me to stray,
I need Your help Lord, to get thru’ the day.

I must come to You, each day in pray’r,
You answer in love, because You care.
No matter my trouble, or my woe,
You’re always with me, where e’er I go.

When I consider, how privileg’d am I,
I call You “Father” O God, Most High!
You are Creator, of every thing,
Yet You call me Your child, and give great blessings!

As I come before, Your awesome Throne,
I’m grateful my sins, You did atone!
Because of Jesus, I can be bold,
And Your blessings of love, I can closely hold.

Keep me dear Lord, on roads that will please You,
Let me in my mind, keep Heaven in view.
Keep me safe, from Satan’s deceiving ways,
Lord I ask Your help, as to You I pray.

I thank You Lord, for all that You do for me,
You graciously give, life eternally.
I thank You, that I am a child of the King,
I thank You, for all Your wondrous blessings.
*****************************
By: His servant, Connie Kramer Dec.17, 2008 #1204
1 Chron. 16:4; Ps.92:1-2; 138:1-3; Luke 17:16; Acts 3:7-10; Romans 12:6-8;
Ephes. 2:8-10; 5:20; 1 Thes. 3:9-10; 5:12-13; 5:18

SALVATION

Jesus said “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3). What does it mean to be ‘born again’? When we are born physically (of our mother), this is our ‘first birth.’ Your second birth comes the moment you truly accept Jesus as your Saviour. You cannot lie to God!
John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: 13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (KJV) . . . Jesus has this power! You can be God’s child! But. Jesus said you can’t even “see” Heaven without being ‘born again.’ If we call on the Name of the Lord, we shall be saved. Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. [KJV]
Romans 10:9-10 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (KJV)

Salvation is available to ALL people.

Salvation (eternal life in Heaven) can be accessed by anyone! It is not something you buy, not something you work for; it is a “gift”! God made salvation so simple that even a young child could understand and accept it; yet the more education a person has, or the older he is, the harder it is to reach him (or her). God loves you! He does not want you to go to Hell; yet if you refuse to accept the “Gift” of His Son, which is eternal life, you most certainly will end up there. Have you received God’s Gift?

If you believe and accept Jesus as your personal Saviour, you can claim ALL the wonderful Promises of God by faith. If you reject Jesus, God promises that He will GIVE to you eternal or second death (Hell). See Matthew 13:49-50; 26:41, 46; John 3:15-18, 36; Romans 6:23; Rev. 20:11-15; 21:8. There IS a Hell! http://www.judgmentcoming.org/j_c_hell_is_it_there.htm

Books You Should Read

Contradictions in the Bible??

God Controls His Creation

Heaven vs Hell

Idolatry

??Is There Really a God??

Judgment in the Great Tribulation Period