When Sinners Entice
“Come on!” “Why not?” “No one will know!” “What’s the harm?” We’ve all heard the enticing, felt the pressure, endured the ridicule, and on occasion given in to the temptation. However, we know that the sinner’s enticement is not always so forward and easily identifiable. More often than not the inducement is subtle and that nagging voice isn’t from a neighbor or friend but comes from within our own minds.
Are you a wall against temptation?
In Proverbs 1:10 we read, “ My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.” From this wisdom we can derive a few things that will help us when the sinner comes calling.
Remember who you are and whose you are. Solomon says, “My son.” Those who have been washed in the blood of Christ have become the sons of God (John 1:12). Giving in to the temptation puts us at odds with our Father. We have given ourselves to serving Him and not ourselves. We are children of the King and need to remember who we serve.
Be prepared! Solomon says “if” but maybe the better word would be “when.” Satan and his minions are busy with enticement and strike when we least expect it and when we are most vulnerable (Matthew 4:1 – 3). Sin is portrayed as innocent and harmless, even pleasurable and Satan often disguises himself as “an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). We need to be prepared when the sinner entices (Ephesians 6:11; 2 Corinthians 2:11).
Do not consent! Who is in control? There is no sin in the temptation for even Jesus was tempted. But far to often we shirk personal responsibility and claim, “I couldn’t help it” or, “The devil made me do it.” Read Romans 6:12 – 17 and tell me who is in control. Someone once said, “You can’t prevent birds from flying over your head, but you can keep them from building nests in your hair.”
Sometimes I think how much easier living the Christian life would be if God would simply build a protective barrier around me and never allow me to be tempted. But then I think of how weak and ineffective I would be. Prepare yourself by putting on the whole armor of God, face the temptation with courage, wisdom, and knowledge, and never give in.
But what if I do? Recognize it for the sin that it is, repent of it quickly, and ask God to forgive you. But above all remember to “walk in the light as he is in the light” (1 John 1:7) for this is where the cleansing blood flows. “Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). This is what it means to be faithful.