When the sailing was smooth, Peter acknowledged Christ. When it became challenging because of Jesus’ teaching, Peter denied Christ. It will be the first of at least four times Peter fell into this pattern. I am great until I face temptation. So too, was Peter. I am in good company.

Temptation is the appeal to satisfy a GODLY-DESIRE by EARTHLY MEANS. Desire itself is not the problem. Temptation, even, is NOT a sin. Being tempted is human, not evil. What we do with these desires for comfort, security, purpose, love, intimacy determines if we are on the road to a Godly-life (sanctification) or as James says “death.: While a test is from God, temptation is a desire within us that is met with an opportunity from our surroundings to act upon it. It is therefore both an opportunity for growth and a threat depending on our response. Due to its life and death implications, it is imperative for us to take it seriously.

CHASTITY - Often we only hear that word used in relation to physical intimacy. But chastity is actually a right ordering of ALL our desires toward God. It is knowing that the way to sanctification is to give our desires completely to God. Desires are not sin. Not orienting them towards God leads down that path though.

The world tells us that if it feels good we should do it. Chastity says that only God is good.

HOW? 1 Peter 5:6-11 helps us here....

Discipline yourselves. Fortunately, self-control is a fruit of the spirit instead of a life long futile task. As we humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God by casting our cares on him, spiritual growth, which is development of Christ-like virtue is imparted to us which includes self-control.

Keep alert. Conflicts are not won by running away - rather - it is by humbly and patiently standing up to them that we gain strength against all our enemies. Thomas a Kempis

Do not grow lax in monitoring our desires and where they may be leading us, encouraging us, tempting us to step away from being under the mighty hand of God. When you find yourself feeling angry, bitter, entitled, anxious, or fearful, it is time to pause and ask “why”.