What shall we say, then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed I would not have known what sin was except through the law. For I would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, “Do not covet.” Romans 7:7
Sometimes facing temptation seems as unconquerable as one might feel standing at the base of Hoover Dam and imagining holding back the water it maintains with your bare hands. I can almost hear the cartoon-like squeak for help. Temptation appears to be that large at times and our wills and minds don’t help the cause at all. If we were actually at the Hoover Dam you can be certain your mind would search the files in your brain on water and tell your will that this is impossible and we should fear imminent death. The truth is, without the Dam in place, our minds and will would likely be right! Let’s face it — that’s alot of water and there’s a fat chance we’d survive such an event. But like it is in most moments of temptation, we are not in danger — our minds and will are sending us signals that aren’t true! We are safe! The Dam is strong . . . . and our God is stronger!
Overcoming temptation appears to be alot like this. Over our heads, heavier than us and far less containable than we have the ability to rein in. In fact, without the Dam there the water would rush over us like a mighty, gorge river. When it comes to temptation, God is alot like the Hoover Dam! Without Him, we will surely die! Without Him, we are unable! Without Him, we cannot stand on our own! Our hope, our trust — our ability to conquer, our ability to fight the good fight and win victoriously in life is only made possible because of the mighty fortress, our God, our Redeemer.
So, instead of standing at the base of temptation saying “don’t” — say “help” instead! The battle we fight cannot be waged alone — we must recognize He is in the battle on our behalf already fighting! Let Him! It’s the principle in Romans 7:7 that describes how saying “don’t” fuels the desire we are trying so desperately to fight. We must learn to control these desires and the only way that is possible is found in John 16:7 where it says, “But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.” You see, He sent us the Counselor!
Don’t say don’t . . . say help!
Revelation 3:20 (NIV)
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
by: Mark Cruver