Staying On God’s Path

I’ve driven Houston’s roadways for years. I can tell you that they are always under construction. Many times it’s slow going when trying to get through the city. Not too long ago, my wife and I were driving north on the West Loop. We were talking and I didn’t notice that where they had swapped sides of a multi lane exit. Instead of continuing on the loop, I found myself on another road. I had to exit that road, make a u-turn and get back on the right road or I never would have made it. Not much further up the road, I observed another person dart from the left lane across to an exit from the right lane. It was sudden and without warning. I have to admit, it’s happened to me once or twice where I saw an exit and took it without warning putting myself and others in danger.

Satan uses temptation a lot like these exits. As you’re making progress in your spiritual walk, sometimes it can be slow going where you feel like you’re not getting anywhere. He uses temptation to get you to detour and e it from the path God has for you. There are times when you slowly exit without even realizing you’re taking it. Before you know it, you’re on the wrong path. Then there are times when you see something and quickly fall for it. Temptation has been used by the devil since the beginning to keep us from where God is leading us. To be tempted is to be human. It isn’t sin until you fall for it and take the exit. The great news is God is always willing to forgive when we repent and take a u-turn to get back on the path He has for us.

Here are some Bible verses on temptation.

1. God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12 NLT

2. Guide me away from temptation and doing evil. Save me from sinful habits and from keeping company with those who are experts in evil. Help me not to share in their sin in any way!

Psalms 141:4 TPT

3. But we are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires.

James 1:14 GNT

4. Leaving there, he went, as he so often did, to Mount Olives. The disciples followed him. When they arrived at the place, he said, “Pray that you don’t give in to temptation.”

Luke 22:39-40 MSG

5. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

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