James 1:14-15 – But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

Every one of us is tempted. We have wicked lusts and impure appetites constantly urging us on in sin. Are you a helpless victim then, when you are drawn away by your own desires and enticed? No, you may expel all thoughts of sin from your mind and concentrate on subjects that are pure and holy (Phil. 4:8). In the moment of fierce temptation, you may call on the Lord, remembering that “The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous run to it, and are safe” (Prov. 18:10). Why then do you sin? Here is the answer: Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin. Instead of expelling the wicked thoughts, you may encourage, nourish, and enjoy them. Lust conceives and a child named SIN is born. Which is another way of saying that if you think about a forbidden act long enough, you will eventually give way to that act. The statement that sin produces death may be understood in several ways. First, the sin of Adam brought physical death on himself and on all his posterity (Gen. 2:17). But sin also leads to eternal, spiritual death—the final separation of the person from God and from blessing (Rom. 6:23a). There is a sense also in which sin results in death for a believer. For instance, in 1 Timothy 5:6 we read that a believing widow who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives. This means that she is wasting her life and utterly failing to fulfill the purpose for which God saved her. To be out of fellowship with God is for a Christian a form of living death.

Challenge:

Do you know someone who has lost everything because for years they had lived in sin that no one knew about? Jesus clearly stated in Luke 8:17 “For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.” Sin produces death in many ways and must be dealt with early so not to cause irreversible damage and heartache. If you are dealing with a sin that has a strong hold on you, TODAY is the day to take action and bring it into the light of Jesus before it destroys you, your family or your ministry. Your challenge this week is to confess your sins, for He is faithful and just to forgive you, your sins and to cleanse you from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9). Live your life in constant confession, not a sorrowful confession that will restrict you, but a willing and honest confession that keeps you freed from the bondage of sin. Cry out to God in serious transparency with the struggles you are dealing with right now. Please reach out to faithful brothers or sisters that will walk with you and help keep you holy and pure before the Lord. Don’t let sin destroy your life, live in the freedom that the Lord Jesus died for. May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ bless you always.