"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Therefore, let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15-16
I used to get upset and fearful whenever a bad thought or temptation would enter my mind, especially if it happened when I was smack-dab in the middle of doing ministry of some kind. Something I have realized as I’ve matured in my walk with the Lord is that I will never be exempt from temptation no matter how close I am to God. In fact, old Slew-foot will never stop trying to either trip me up in ways that he's seen me fall in the past, or he will craftily devise new ways to tangle me up in his snare. Dr. David Jeremiah wrote,
As a matter of fact, the wiser and more mature in Christ we become, the more treacherous and subtle are the choices. They don't become easier, but more difficult, for the devil is no fool. The advanced level earns you advanced opposition. The important thing to remember is that you're walking with the Lord on that journey. He will hold your hand and He will never fail to point out the direction that’s right and true.
We will never be exempt from temptation until we are in heaven, but God has given every tool necessary to combat it. One thing I’ve noticed in the past is that when a tempting thought came into my mind, letting myself feel condemned only led me to think about it more. However, temptation in itself is not sin and spontaneous bad thoughts don't make us less holy. Harboring bad thoughts, stewing on them, and acting on them is what leads to sin. Be encouraged by the words of Paul who said, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide you with a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Cor. 10:12-14).
As a way of dealing with temptation, I often imagine the difference between a fresh, clean, flowing stream and a smelly, stagnant pond. As soon as a bad thought comes, let it wash right on downstream and don't take it too seriously. Don't let your mind be like a pond where evil thoughts linger and stagnate making you feel fearful, condemned, or eventually acting upon them. If you are a Christian, Satan's goal is to first condemn you so that you are focused on the sinful temptation, and even though you feel bad about it, you're still letting it have a place there. Resist the devil by speaking God's word and then keep on doing what God has called you to do! Speak it out loud so he hears it and you do too! "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit, for the law of the Spirit of life has set me free from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:1-2).
My fellow believers, let us walk in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free! Time is short and the days are evil, but we are more than conquerors through Jesus who loves us and gave his life for us!
[1]Jeremiah, Dr. David, “20 Verses for Taming Temptation” https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/bible-study/20-verses-for-taming-temptation.html?gclid=Cj0KCQiA88a5BhDPARIsAFj595jU01uGNdJwvSJBCp7kxTGkGXsD9SFw9VvFGTBoPEsnvFs4zMX8CD0aAmJ2EALw_wcB
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