Guard Your Eyes Against the World's Many Temptations

Another great devotion that I had to share. Taken from Above all Else - Directions for life - Pg. 78-81. Enjoy and keep pressing into Jesus!

Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Proverbs 4:25 NLT

It's inevitable: today you will be tempted by somebody or something - in fact, you will probably be tempted on countless occasions. Why? Because you live in a world that's filled to the brim with temptations and addictions that are intended to lead you far away from God.

Here in the 21st century, temptations are now completely and thoroughly woven into the fabric of everyday life. Seductive images are everywhere; subtle messages tell you that it's okay to sin "just a little"; and to make matters even worse, society doesn't just seem to endorse godlessness, it actually seems to reward it. Society spews forth a wide range of messages, all of which imply that it's OK to rebel against God. These messages, of course, are extremely dangerous and completely untrue.

How can you guard your heart against society's tidal wave of temptations? Be learning to direct your thoughts and your eyes in ways that are pleasing to God...and by relying upon Him to deliver you from the evils that threaten you. And here's the good news: the Creator has promised (not implied, not suggested, not insinuated - He has promised!) that with His help, you can resist every single temptation that confronts you.

When it comes to fighting Satan, you are never alone. God is always with you, and if you do your part He will do His part. But what, precisely, is your part? A good starting point is simply learning how to recognize the subtle temptations that surround you. The images of immorality are ubiquitous, and they're intended to hijack your mind, your heart, your pocketbook, your life, and your soul. Don't let them do it.

Satan is both industrious and creative; he's working 24/7, and he's causing pain, heartache, trauma, and tragedy in more ways than ever before. You, as a Christian man of God, must remain watchful and strong - starting today and ending never.

A tip for guarding your heart
You live in a society where temptations are everywhere. Your task is to avoid places where you might be tempted to disobey God.

God's Words of Wisdom

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations. 2 Peter 2:9

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:11

This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:15

Summing it up
Because you live in a temptation-filled world, you must guard your eyes, your thoughts, and your heart - ALL DAY, EVERY DAY!