Compromised with Temptation
We are challenged with compromise daily; generally our understanding of compromise is our mutual response and support that we have for each other. Compromising your beliefs in the midst of temptation; however, is real. Everyday there is a challenge to compromise: our children (protection vs. peer pressure), inter-relationships withour loved ones, job security; marketing deceptions; and yes…even our faith. Understanding the concept of compromise (acceptance of something less than attainable) and temptation (a desire or craving for something that may be considered wrong); one can easily slip if we’re not careful. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." (Matthew 26:41, TLB) In the aftermath of one of this nation’s economic downfalls is the loss of homes. One instance comes to mind…during a recent “Save the Dream Tour” in which thousands of homeowners attended in need to save their homes, there was an “isolated” incident in which an “unknown” financial representative expressed an “off the cuff” gesture that fell on the ears of fervent believers: “Lessen your donations of tithe and offering and you may be able to meet your financial obligation in in restoring their mortgage!” Unsettling as it may sound, in times of desperation, this may sound tempting for some. But, when you’re faithful and know God’s truth, there is no temptation of compromise. God says: “But seek FIRST His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6: 33NASB). We do not need principalities in the earth realm to influence our decisions when we follow God. In the earth realm, there are constant attacks on God’s people through tactics, strategies, enticement, conditions, threats and intimidation.
Keep your eye on the Lord in all occurrences, remain steadfast in his word, as his word is truth. I Corinthians 10:13, TLB. "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." There are clear and definite instructions from God that we must follow (one example: Tithe and Offering). There are over 66 scriptures in the Old Testament and New Testament emphasizing the importance of tithe and offerings and the blessings you will receive if you will just do what God requires. The bible proclaims promises of blessings to the giver and tither it is truly an act of worship and faith. There can be no compromise when it comes to the devil, we are either for Christ or Satan:"He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters." (Matthew 12:30, NIV.) God reassures us:“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith saith the Lord of hosts.( Malachi 3:10) or "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your la. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you ( Luke 6:38)
DO NOT WORRY – God will take care of you! in times in our lives, we feel backed in a corner…seems there’s no way to turn, this is a given opportunity for the “other” one to influence you when you feel you have no choice. Pray, Pray, Pray, fercently, unceasingly, determined, unwavering…Ask God what you want…Remember, give Praise, Repent, submit your petition, Request for God guidance and direction; and express intimateThanksgiving in the name of our Heavenly Lord Jesus Christ.…let the Holy Spirit speak through your heart. Be anxious about nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your “requests“ be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7) We know God’s word and His action is proof as to what He has done for us! Why should we continuously second guess in the midst of trials? This is the time we need to remain steadfast, put on our arm of God and stand proud, as soldiers of God and …with the protection covered by the Blood of our Lord Christ, we stand against all that is not of God’s promise. God loves you, he will not leave you nor forsake you! Where is your faith, how often to you pray, how much fithe, offering, stewardship do you extend. As God is fair, it is still an event exchange. serve Him with all of your heart, mind and soul ! As with the story of JOB, with faith, trust in the Lord, do not give up…God is there to carry your burden with you.