James 1:13-15

When tempted no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.  Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. – James 1:13-15

Dear heavenly father,

I know you would never tempt me to evil.  But sometimes I feel you should keep temptation further away from me.  I accept what you are saying; I am dragged away by my own evil desire.  It’s hard to admit but it’s true.  I am evil enough to lead myself into sin.  I am thankful that you saved me anyway through the sacrifice of your own Son.  And I believe that you give all believers power to overcome their temptations through love and faith in you.  Strengthen me in the faith through your Holy Spirit to deal personally and precisely with my own sins.  Give me the ability to see my desires in light of your word and to put those that are bad to death as soon as they sprout.  It’s there in the inner man that I need to deal with them.  And because I love you I will fight them with all the strength you allow me to have.  Help me Lord, to live a godly life until I rest in glory with you.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

The greatest battle is never between me and another.  It’s between me and me.