Two-minute read.
When we can’t say no, we become vulnerable. Lacking a defense, any temptation that comes our way can make us tumble. Homemade New York-style cheesecake made me lose control this morning when I ate a leftover piece for breakfast. Now my belly feels queasy, from my lack of self-control.
We all have areas that cause us to stumble, and we need to fix the walls to overcome the temptation. Typically, I wouldn’t have cheesecake in my house because I know it affects my willpower, but a friend brought it as his contribution to dinner. If I wanted to easily win the battle of self-control, when he texted about bringing dessert, I could have said no, instead of yes, which would have fixed the wall.
Identifying your weaknesses will help you develop a battle plan to overcome them. Vulnerabilities leave us defenseless when under attack. But if we can fix the broken walls, we can find victory. Start filling in the holes with Jesus, and allow Him to become your strength in weakness. Ask the Savior for self-control, and let Him lead the way.
Placing guardrails in your life helps you stay on the straight and narrow. Ron and I protect our marriage by following pre-determined rules. We have words we don’t use, tempting situations we avoid, and high standards of accountability. Living by these guidelines helps us develop a healthy relationship that bonds us to each other and the Savior.
Identify your areas of vulnerability and develop strategies to strengthen them. Prayerfully seek guidance from Jesus and defend successfully against the enemy’s ploys. In Christ, you have everything you need to win the battle and find victory.
Journal Question:
What areas do you struggle with self-control?
What kind of preventative measures can you take to avoid temptations?
How can Jesus help you develop a winning strategy?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for giving us the wisdom to identify our vulnerabilities. As we strive to become more obedient to You, give us the self-control necessary to overcome our temptations and honor You.
IJNIP. Amen
