No shortcuts Part 2 - LUST, @imagechurch Dumfries, VA

Flee lust!

Jesus reaction when he is tempted: utter and complete dependence upon God. What do you do?

On the cross, Jesus did not just give us another way to avoid sin, but He gave us a way to be forgiven for EVERY sin.

The biggest temptation that we face is when we question whether God really knows what is best. That God has our best interest in mind.

Satan tempted Jesus to put physical needs above spiritual needs. But who are we to submit to? God. If we submit to God spiritually, He will take care of us physically.

When we allow our circumstance to dictate our actions instead of following God's will, we sin.

It is like everyday in this life, is its own wilderness that we must face the temptation of, just like Jesus did. It doesn't matter if we have already compromised our character in the past, Jesus's blood can cover anything, if we believe in Him.

Potifer bought Joseph, and because of his love for God, Potifer saw God working through his life. Joseph was a living testament to God, Joseph's character came from the One, True God. Rather than being bitter of his circumstance, Joseph chose to continue living to Honor God. God has favor onthose who walk with. God blesses those who choose Him.

Even when we take a stand for God, our circumstances may not end well. But know that God is in control.

How to run away from lust...

1. We must not allow our circumstances to weaken us.

No matter what circumstance we find ourselves in, we must stand for what is right. When we stand for God our circumstances may change but God is always in control.

When he was young, Joseph made some solid commitments in his life, that no matter the circumstances he would choose to Honor God with his life. God blessed him for it, even if that meant that his good circumstances would change, Joseph trusted God to be in control and know what was best for him.

God blesses those who are obedient, even in their weak moments to allow the strength of God to shine through.

2. We must not rationalize our feelings.

We can always think of ways to get around being caught by anyone except for God. We cannot avoid the consequence of sinning, cannot avoid the heart. Joseph refused to use his power and influence for his convenience; the same thing Jesus did for us.

We can NEVER rationalize our sin away, we NEED Jesus.

3. We must not allow the end result to determine our decision.

There are always good possibilities to sin, but that does not make them the right decision. We must choose to honor God before our circumstance change.

Joseph lost his coat, his job, and his freedom. But he kept his character.

The biggest issue of sinning comes down to what is the authority in our lives? If we say God, do we believe He has our best in mind?

Many believe that Potifer did not believe his wife, because such a heinous crime should have been given a penalty of death. But because Potifer knew the character of Joseph, he let him live but still had to show a public display because of his position.

Created over 1 year ago