James 1:14, "People are tempted when their own evil desire leads them away and traps them."

Think

Don't Let Desire Catch Fire! Every human being has desires. We desire food or sex or companionship, to name a few. These are God-given appetites and needs. There is nothing wrong with our desires – unless they turn into a consuming fire and we chase the wrong thing. And what was intended to be good suddenly becomes destructive. How does desire become a problem? It is when we take a God-given appetite and use it in a God-forbidden way. In other words, we are lured to do something good in a bad way. We get hungry but become a glutton by overeating. We feel sexual desire but become promiscuous by taking sex outside the marriage bed. Every individual is tempted when he or she is entrapped or snared by their own desires. As stated, we take what is good and use it in a sinful way. To be a winner in the game of life is to remain strong as we enjoy our God-given desires in a God-ordained way. In short, don't let any desire catch fire!

Act

Think back to a time when you were lured to use God-given desires in a God-forbidden way. Recall how you felt when you succumbed to the temptation. Resolve today that, by God's grace, you will choose to satisfy these desires God's way.

Pray

Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that my desires do not control me. I choose today and every day to satisfy my desires in a way that pleases you. Thank you for your grace and power in my life that helps me to reflect your righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen.