We all face temptations of various kinds – a false promise that we can find life apart from God. And certainly, it’s right to resist sin and not play around with fire. At the same time, it’s often helpful to understand our temptations as well. This gives us insights to be better equipped in our fight.
For instance, we crave food when our body is hungry because we need to eat. And sometimes this is a particular craving for protein, fats, or carbs. Each of these cravings are related to different needs of the body. And it’s helpful to understand what the body wants to give the body what it needs.
And the same is true when it comes to our temptations.
There’s a reason we’re tempted in the ways we are. We each have our signature temptations that reveal a good bit about our story and the desires of our heart.
And while the temptation itself is tempting us to pervert God’s goodness, there remains an original goodness that is being exploited. We were created for good, and evil tempts us to pursue this good in our own strength apart from God.
Part of understanding our temptations is considering its original goodness.
What is that good thing I was created for that evil is now trying to take advantage of and get me to pursue without God?
Perhaps we’re legitimately craving touch and affection, adventure and intimacy, a sense of being powerful and significant, or simply comfort, beauty, and connection. These are all good desires that can be easily distorted when pursued through sinful outlets.
But the more we understand our temptations the more we can intentionally pursue these desires in godly ways.
In the end, understanding your temptations helps you to not throw the baby out with the bath water, as you also discover the true good God created you to enjoy.
Photo by Giorgia Doglioni on Unsplash
