Good Morning! ~ Crossroad Situations

Keep the change even when it’s not yours: Monetary Temptations

Keep the change even when it's not yours

Blessed is the man that endures temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to them that love him. James 1:12 

One man’s loss

On a recent visit to the ‘Golden Arches’ I took advantage of their sausage egg and cheese ‘what-cha-ma-call-it’ special. My total was $3.21. I tendered $5.21 to the cashier.  In a rush the manager gave me $3.00.  I was faced with a dilemma; perceive this as a blessing of sorts “one man’s loss is another’s gain?” Or demonstrate honesty and return the funds?

God’s daily quiz

Daily I am tested. Do I choose to eat sausage, eggs, grits, and toast or a bowl of oatmeal? Run a yellow light or stop? There are also family related decisions seek higher paying employment which includes traveling or stay home and enjoy family?  How I adapt, adjust or endure is the quagmire.  Life flings situations everyday; albeit a meal, stop light or job decision.  Yet each example displays how choices can interfere with life.  Do I succumb to my temptation’s grasp or allow God’s Spirit to lead?  More often than not man follows his mind’s desire oppose to God’s.

Trials and victories

According to scripture, the man who is tried and fight through shall receive the crown of life!  Based on these words being kicked around mentally and physically is commonplace. In some form or fashion, large or small anticipate a per Diem of trials. Situations will manifest, and when they do, it is imperative to be equipped with God’s knowledge in order to claim victory. The word ensures a greater chance to prevail. 

God does not tempt

I had to learn temptation is not of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempts he any man Jam 1:13.  So, a question rose, “are temptations exams to strengthen my faith?” Jesus’ albatross was Satan. He attempted to seize a moment of ‘weakness’ to tempt Jesus. It was faith and knowledge of Abba Father’s word that sustained Jesus.

Christian situations

Resisting Temptation

For each day I live, there will be crossroads to face. How strong my faith is will be exemplified based on the response.  God does care how I counter them even little things such as returning my so called blessing. Sure I could easily pocket the dollar and Mickey D’s could have written it off as a miscellaneous petty funds lost. But what would I have gained? Or lost? So as a Christian it was my responsibility to give the dollar back.

How to respond

When facing temptations how do you retaliate? Do give in or learn to resist. In the end by resisting, the dividends will be spiritual growth which allows your Christian light to shine for others to see.

It was apparent the manager was hastened that day. Before driving off I noticed a puzzle look on his face while handing him the dollar. “You gave me too much change.” A sigh of relief was seen and a heart felt “thanks I really appreciate you giving this back” made me realize that God was pleased with me for being honest.  Blessed is the man that endures temptation.

When God appears far away I questioned him

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?   Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? Psalms 22:1

Not too long ago I questioned my faith at every crossroad. Was the Holy Spirit with me or was I home alone. Though I professed my faith in Christ my mind played tricks on me. I questioned God. Lord my life does not make sense. Doubt found a small breech in my foundation of faithfulness. I wanted to give up.

When God appears far away

David was hand picked by God. He slayed Goliath, and was chosen the next heir to Saul. David was a man after God’s own heart. Despite all God’s bestowed blessings David encountered emotional despair.  Why Lord do you stand far off?  Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?  Psalms 10:1

Did God forsake me? No. Though it appeared that God was far from David as heaven is to earth he confirmed that God was still in control. In you our ancestors put their trust they trusted and you delivered them Psalms 22:4.

As the ocean tides ebb and flow I learned to trust in God’s word no matter how unstable a situation may appear. Every day is confirmation God has blessed me. When bad days rise God expects me to rely on my faith in Him. To dig through tribulation, trust in his word. As with David my valley is only temporary.

The paradigm shift

I focused on these steps as I developed my Spiritual relationship with Christ.  

+ Never-ending prayer [conversation]

+ Seeking to improve self spiritually

+Trusting more in every word

+In return God made his presence known through the Holy Spirit

Spirit over Flesh

When operating in the flesh I was frustrated and unable to maintain a clear mindset. As I leaned more on His word it was evident He never left me nor forsaken me. God was always present.

Don’t give up no matter how hard the journey. Trust more in God and express it through prayer and praise. Lift your eyes unto the hills from whence cometh your help Psalms 121.  In exchange God will fulfill his word by making the expedition just a bit easier. Keep the faith and allow God to complete his masterpiece which is you!

Let us pray:
Lord, in the name of Jesus I doubt that you are with me. I am questioning your love, joy and peace. Help me trust in your word. Remove my disbelief. Make your word clear so it will lead me in to trusting you more. Give me the strength not to give up and continue to grow into the warrior you created me to be. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. No weapons can form against me if I trust and obey your word.  Lord Bless every reader of your word. This I pray in your son Jesus Christ name. - Amen