Sugar Fast Day 22
Have you even noticed that the closer you get to a goal, especially one you are moving towards with God, the more the temptations come? I am just past the halfway mark of my fast from sugar and sugar has been EVERYWHERE! Friday a co-worker brought donuts to work; Saturday I was at a memorial service for a dear friend and everyone around me was eating cinnamon rolls and cookies. Even yesterday, having lunch with friends I had to watch them eat dessert and choose NOT to eat any myself. Looking back it was a weekend of overcoming temptation, but I had to ask myself, “Where is my focus”?
1 Corinthians 10:13 reminds me that any temptation I face is not only common to man, but I will not be tempted beyond what I can handle. I find this comforting when surrounded by people who are enjoying a sugary treat.
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Where Is My Focus?
Another thing I must check in situations like this is what I am focusing on. Is my mind consumed with what I think I am missing out on? If that is where I choose to focus, then it become much more difficult to overcome the desire for what I want–sugar. But what if I made a different choice about what I am thinking about? Again, God’s word gives me strength and comfort.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)
It is so important to take my thoughts captive. Not paying attention to the thoughts I have can really take me down a dark trail. Again, God’s word is so good. It reminds me of truth.
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, (2 Corinthians 10:5)
Throughout my sugar free journey I can see God working in me. I recognize His strength in not succumbing to the temptations of the weekend and I know He will continue to give me the strength I need to overcome.