Does Feeling Tempted Mean I Have Failed?
Drawn from the teaching of Professor Gary S. Maxey · 2 min read
A believer prays at night and finds a thought arriving he did not invite. He wonders if he has already sinned. Or if God has left him. Professor Gary Maxey answers from his own experience.
His two years of struggle
In his book on the Highway of Holiness, Professor Maxey tells how, after entering the Highway, he went through a long time of struggle. He says the first cause was that he did not understand temptation. He thought it meant he had failed or that God was angry with him. He says temptation is normal for believers and unbelievers.
He points to Jesus. The Lord himself was severely tempted. Professor Maxey writes that even nagging and persistent temptation does not mean that we have failed, or that God is angry, or that we have backslidden.
The second mistake
He adds a second cause: not seeing the persistent love and care of God. The adversary whispers that you have already failed because you are tormented by temptation. Then he suggests you may as well sin boldly. Professor Maxey calls this a lie, and says he lost fellowship with God needlessly during those years.
God's love is tenacious
He reminds readers that God is not ready to let us go at the slightest hint of doubt or approaching disobedience. His love is wonderfully tenacious. He quotes Paul: nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8).
The difference between being tempted and giving in
Temptation is the invitation. Sin is the yes. Professor Maxey says God provides a way of escape with every temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13). He does not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear.
What to do tonight
When a thought comes that you did not invite, say a short prayer: "Lord, this is not mine. I give it to you." Then turn your mind to a Scripture you know. If you gave in, do not wait until morning. Confess at once and return.
Drawn from the teaching of Professor Gary S. Maxey.
