1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 – ‘…this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, 5 not in lustful passion…’
Do you rule over your body or does your body rule over you? There are desires, thoughts, imaginations, impulses, and proclivities that come to each person that must be controlled by the man or woman of God. We must honor God with our bodies and not use them to violate His righteous standards by the power of Christ’s Spirit that dwells within us. We are not victims but victors over that which tries to control us in Jesus’ name (1 Cor. 10:13).
Temptation is not sin. When satan came to Eve in the garden of Eden, he brought her attention to that which God had forbidden. When she looked at it, she wanted it; and yet she did not sin by wanting it. Sin came when she reached out, took the fruit, and ate it. When her will had consented with her desire, sin entered.
James reminds us that God gives a greater grace. When temptation comes, we should submit therefore to God; resist the devil, and he will flee (James 4:6-7). Are you honoring God with your body, setting yourself apart for God and His purposes?
Heavenly Father, I thank you that have promised to be faithful to always give me a way out from the temptation to sin against you. I thank you that in Jesus Christ you have made provision for me to be in control over my desires and use them for the glory of Your name. Amen.