Stay Freshናሙና

How Do We Get Tricked Into Wanting Fish Guts?

Yesterday, you learned that running from God (or sinning) is like getting trapped inside fish guts. Disgusting. Nothing good can come of it, right? 

So, if sin is so disgusting, why do people sin in the first place? It has a little something to do with the fact that sin doesn’t always appear as sin. 

Sin often presents itself as something fun, powerful, or easy. It tries to convince us that it’s good—even when deep down we know it’s not good. It covers itself in charm and trickery, only to later reveal itself as a trap. 

What about you? Have you ever been tempted to believe that something God said wasn’t really important? Or maybe that it doesn’t matter if you don’t obey that one thing? What tempts you? Watch this video for more on that.

Sin tells us that we know better than the Creator of everything. How ridiculous!

Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” When your heart and mind is focused on God, you’ll see His daily restoration of our world and of your heart. 

Throw off the old sinful nature. Recognize temptation for what it is—an illusion that leads to a dead end. Stay aware and stay fresh.

Ask yourself: Which area do I need God to freshen up the most: what I think, what I say, or what I do? 

Challenge yourself: Think about your answer to the “Ask yourself” question above. What is one habit you could start today that would help? Try to do that thing each day for at least the next full week. Example: If you said, “I need God to freshen up the words I say to my mom when she asks me to do something I don’t feel like doing,” you could start a habit of writing an apology note each time your words are rude or disrespectful. It may help you think before you speak. 

Pray: God, thank You for helping me to realize that when I’m tempted to do what You say is not good, I’m really just being tempted into a trap. Help me to see sin for what it is. It leads nowhere good, ever. Thank You for making me clean. Thank You for keeping my heart fresh. In Jesus’ name, amen.