No matter how often you fall, get back up. ‘Though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again’ (Proverbs 24:16 NIV). Becoming spiritually mature is a whole-of-life process. It happens every time you turn to God in weakness and allow Him to do for you what you can’t do for yourself. ‘The Lord is near to the brokenhearted’ (Psalm 34:18 NASB). God always – always – responds with grace to someone who’s really repenting. He’ll meet you at your lowest point, walk with you through regret and repentance, and bring you out stronger. When you’re out the other side, write down what you’ve learned through temptation. As you write you’ll see what needs to be ‘transformed by the renewing of your mind’ (Romans 12:2 KJV). And write down new habits you want to integrate into your life – more creative prayer, accountability to a bud, Bible memorising, watching yourself more closely, whatever it is. Use what you’ve learned. Jesus told Peter: ‘Satan has asked to test all of you…I have prayed that you will not lose your faith! Help your brothers be stronger when you come back to me’ (Luke 22:31-32 NCV). Let today mark a new start by using what you’ve learned – not only to avoid falling again, but to help others facing temptation. Jesus said, ‘I have given you…[physical and mental strength…] over all the power that the enemy [possesses].’
What Now?
Write down one thing you know is a big temptation in your life. Next to it, write one good habit that you really want to cultivate. Whenever that thing tempts you, block it by doing the good habit instead.
