The Edmund in all of us

“I can resist everything but temptation.”

- Oscar Wilde

Scene from the movie, The Chronicles of Narnia, where Edmund is treated nicely by the White Witch.

James 1:13-15

3When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

^^ That’s pretty self explanatory, I've learnt something new. Temptation does not come from God, but from the devil/within ourselves. Temptation is seductive. Reason must always control passion.

10 Truths about sin

1. Sin is most appealing when we are weak.

2. Sin clouds how evil sin actually is.

3. Sin appears as what you want.

4. Sin clouds your judgement.

5. Sins pleasures don’t last long.

6. Sin will eventually kill you.

7. Sin promises better down ahead, but doesn’t deliver such a promise.

8. Sin lies about your importance.

9. Sin betrays others.

10. Sin spoils good things.

Ø Don’t be discouraged when (not if, when) you are tempted: “Temptations are sure to ring your doorbell, but you don’t have to invite them in for dinner.”

Ø Don’t be drawn away when you’re tempted, and never forget that there is always forgiveness.

Ø Don’t be deceived when you are tempted.

Application

1. Pray – Matthew 6:13
2. Devour the scriptures – 2 Tim 3:16: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,”

3. Avoid compromising situations: Proverbs 4:14-15: “Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. “

4. Get enough rest – Proverbs 24:33

5. Seek accountability from others – 1 cor 10:13: “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’s a bit of Edmund in us all, but more of the Holy Spirit.