Sports Spectrum Daily Devotional: Wednesday, February 12

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13

Free to Overcome Temptation

Everyone has to deal with temptations, so you don’t need to feel embarrassed if you’re facing a particular temptation right now. But at the same time, you don’t have to succumb to temptation, because it is something you can overcome! All temptations can be beaten. You just have to make up your mind that you’re going to be the conqueror and not the conquered.

The devil tries to lure you into sin by using your mind and emotions. He injects thoughts into your mind and emotions that act as stimulants to get you all stirred up in a certain area of your life. At that moment, you are consciously aware that you can let the temptation pass you by, or you can allow those thoughts to fester in your mind and take root in your emotions until they become a major stronghold in your mind to battle and conquer. By refusing to accept the thoughts in the first place, you can avoid the struggle.

Today the Lord is asking you, “Are you going to stay the way you are right now or are you willing to take the proper steps to escape from this emotional temptation and demonic trap?” What is your answer? What are you going to do? God is waiting for you to decide if you will receive the freedom He is offering you or remain a hostage for the rest of your life. The choice is yours to make.

— Ted Winsley, Philadelphia Eagles chaplain

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