Why Sin Doesn’t Work

but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. James 1:14

James writes: ‘Don’t blame God when you are tempted! God cannot be tempted by evil, and he doesn’t use evil to tempt others. We are tempted by our own desires that drag us off and trap us. Our desires make us sin, and when sin is finished with us, it leaves us dead. Don’t be fooled, my dear friends’ (vv. 13-16). When you keep sinning and violating your values, you can reach a place where it’s hard to live comfortably in your own skin. Any appetite that’s overindulged can quickly become an addiction. What you wanted yesterday, you find yourself needing today. Then before you know it, you give yourself over to the thing that’s controlling your life because it’s the only way you can find temporary escape. Stop and ask: 1) ‘What about my life’s purpose?’ What about the person God called you to be? Seeing the joy others have is a constant reminder of the joy you’ve lost, and what you’re missing out on. 2) ‘What happens when trouble hits my life or my family?’ In such moments you wonder, ‘Is this happening because of me?’ A thousand voices may tell you it’s not your fault, but deep down you are never sure. The only way to find real peace is to get right with God. And you can. Here’s His offer: ‘Turn to the Lord! He can still be found. Call out to God! He is near. Give up your crooked ways and your evil thoughts. Return to the Lord our God. He will be merciful and forgive your sins’ (Isaiah 55:6-7).

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Mercy and Grace because of Your Son who welcomes me back when I screw up and repent. In Jesus’ Name, Amen