“For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning.”

Hebrews 4:15

          Temptation!  Literature great and small, films classic and cheap, and now even a recent television show revolve around this powerful human dynamic.  We covet what we see, so some believers over the years have tried to limit what they see by living in monastic communities where temptation is held outside high walls.  But, temptation still sneaks in through the crannies of the human heart.

          Others give up the fight and give in with a shrug, “I’m only human.”  Some even seek it out as a test of faith.  The results of such a view can be deadly to all human relationships because it breaks trust.  Vows of fidelity come under suspicion.

          Scripture offers an alternative to “running and hiding” or “giving in and giving up”.  It suggests we bring our temptations to Jesus, who the Bible says, understands because he has suffered the same as we.   So, there is no reason to run and hide because he can empathize.  There is no reason to give in with a shrug, because Jesus responded by remaining faithful.

          So, scripture encourages, “with confidence we can draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need.”  It can be as simple as acknowledging in prayer those things you covet which you know can destroy your spirit, asking God for strength to resist and for forgiveness when you did not.