TITLE: At The Front - Anatomy Of Temptation By Michael Metz 09/05/09 |
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It's happening now; as I write. Like it does every Friday and Saturday night. So I'm not really concerned about the technical merits of this piece as much as I am about getting it down; reporting it. You see, every Friday and Saturday my wife works the night shift and by now the kids are in bed (the clock is striking twelve midnight - the battle call for the forces of evil to pour forth). Where was I, oh yeah. So it's me and my thoughts and the computer.
What's happening? Temptation. The lust of the flesh is beginning to brew like a stew simmering on the stove - bubbling and getting hotter. This temptation brings a certain "taste" to my mouth that seems to paste itself to my thoughts.
Let me say here, I'm a believer in Jesus Christ - that puts a target on my back for the enemy. I've been a believer in Jesus for a over 15 years. Active relationship: study the Bible, prayer, live the Word, teach class. But you see there are chinks in my character. Like the corrosion of a cars brake lines you can't see the chinks, but there are signs of their presence.
This is where the enemy, yes - satan and his demons, will focus their attacks. I should note, the enemies advances seem to have halted as I write about them. You see, the enemy doesn't like being exposed - brought out into the light. They work best in the dark corners, in the dank sewer, the places no one wants to look.
Where was I, oh yes, the focus of the attacks. Am I defenseless? No, my Lord would not leave me without resources. What's that? Why doesn't He just snuff them out since He's so powerful? Good question. It's because the Lord is able to demonstrate His power through me; a weak, feeble, incapable instrument for His use. I prayed over this for a long time (my giving in to the lust of the flesh) and what He told me (was He does speak through His still small voice - His Spirit bears witness to my spirit) to use the "sword" He's provided. His Word - the Bible.
State scripture to chase the devil away. So why do I experience so much defeat? Another good question. Like any weapon it's only as good as I am with using it. This is why it's frustrating to hear God get so much blame. My guess is that the average Christian is so inept at using the resources given then it's no wonder the enemy has so many victories.
Look just the fact that I've been talking about it has driven the enemy away. I haven't even talked about what I thought was going to happen. Well, it looks like tonight's battle has been diverted. Signing off at the battle front of temptation - til next time.
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