Temptations surround us in every hour of every day, whether you are a college student like myself or an adult out in the working world. They are everywhere. Should I eat the M&M brownies? Should I spend time studying or watching Netflix? While these transgressions aren’t the end of the world, others can be more serious. Should I lie to people instead of always being honest? Should I lust after something or someone that I don’t have or remain true and loyal? Temptations are everywhere and they affect our decisions daily. They pull us away from what truly matters: God and our true selves.
What matters in college is not only keeping up on schoolwork and furthering an education, but also staying true to who you really are. In both of these realms there are events, people, and ideas that may catch our interests and lead us astray. Staying firm in your own personal ideals and values becomes very important when these temptations arise and blindside us. We may not even see them coming or realize that they are changing us.
One of my favorite bible verses sums up my thoughts about temptations just about perfectly. “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)
I like this verse because it recognizes the fact that everyone will face challenges and temptations in life. No one gets through life without struggling. It happens to everyone. The verse emphasizes what’s really important—how we react while facing temptations and trials. We must remain “steadfast,” committed to our faith and to God, because God has great things planned for us in our futures.
Some of you may be thinking, “God forgives me for my sins anyway, so why does it matter?” Although this is true, thanks to God’s incredible mercy and unconditional love, I do not see God as being too pleased if all that we do is give into temptations and ask for his forgiveness later. That does not show dedication and commitment to God. Rather, that shows a lack of devotion and of self-discipline.
So, instead of giving in to every temptation, we need to ask for God’s help and guidance to get through the trials that we face in life. He wants to see us succeed and continue down the path of righteousness. He wants us to model our lives after Christ, radiating the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). While love, joy, and kindness may seem obvious, notice that forbearance, faithfulness, and self-control also made the list. Remain unfaltering in your faith and your trials will eventually pass. What will remain, however, is much, much greater: a loving and faithful relationship with God for all of eternity.
