June 30, 2025 - No Comments!

Escaping the Temple: Tempted, Tangled, and Haunted

Let's think back on the Diana's temple from the beginning of this series. Whether you’re standing at the door, already inside, or walking out covered in shame—Jesus meets you there. Here’s how to fight temptation, flee entanglement, and heal from the past. The small lion must die before it kills everything you love.

To the Tempted (Curious at the Door)

Temptation isn’t sin—but it isn’t neutral. It trains your desires in a direction. Thomas Watson’s old wisdom still preaches:

  • Choose companions wisely. Some rooms are on‑ramps to ruin (Prov. 13:20).
  • Guard your eyes and inputs. Entertainment is discipleship in disguise (Ps. 101:3).
  • Guard your heart. If a space or friendship cultivates discontent with your spouse, end it (Prov. 4:23).
  • Beware idleness. Screwtape loves doom‑scrolling. Build a rule of life that includes worship, work, and real rest (Eph. 5:15–16).
  • Delight in the Word. The Faithful One makes us faithful (Ps. 119:9–11).

God promises a way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13). Look for it. Take it. Tell someone when you do—courage multiplies in community.

To the Tangled (Living Inside the Temple)

If your sin is “working,” you’re trading diamonds for Monopoly money. The pet lion you feed will outgrow your leash. Confess now—before the cage breaks. Take immediate steps:

  • Bring it to the light. Confess to God and a trusted believer (1 John 1:7–9).
  • Cut off access. Remove apps, change numbers, set filters, move desks, change jobs if you must (Matt. 5:29–30).
  • Invite accountability. Not perfection police—gospel friends who ask loving, specific questions.
  • Pursue counsel. Wise pastors and Christian therapists are part of God’s rescue plan.
  • Rebuild rhythms. Re‑establish worship, service, and friendship. Holiness isn’t a cul‑de‑sac; it’s a way of life.

If you don’t manage your appetites, your appetites will manage you.

To the Haunted (Walking Out in Shame)

Consequences can echo, but the cross silences condemnation. In Christ, the penalty is paid (Rom. 8:1), the power is broken (Rom. 6:6–14), and the presence is on the clock (Rev. 21:3–5). Don’t confuse presence with power. Don’t let yesterday narrate tomorrow. The Father runs toward prodigals (Luke 15); Jesus defends sinners and then disciples them: “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more” (John 8:11). Same Jesus—mercy and holiness in one voice.

Jesus Is Better

Moses brought the law; Jesus fulfilled it (Matt. 5:17). He doesn’t rinse sin; He drowns it. He doesn’t half‑forgive; He buries the record (Col. 2:13–15). He stands with the betrayed—He knows the ache of covenant‑breaking love. The gospel is strong enough to forgive the deepest betrayal, heal the most broken relationship, and sustain a faithfulness that mirrors God’s own.

Next Steps

  • Tell one trusted believer today.
  • If you’re married, schedule a candid, compassionate conversation this week.
  • If you’ve been betrayed, ask for pastoral care and counseling. Healing is slow; you don’t have to walk it alone.
  • Build a small rule of life (Scripture, prayer, weekly community, service, rest) to change your inputs and pace.

Questions for Reflection

  1. Where are you—curious, tangled, or haunted?
  2. What concrete step of honesty or help will you take in the next 24 hours?
  3. What promise of Jesus do you most need right now?

A Simple Prayer

Jesus, have Your way. My body and desires are Yours. Lead me out of the temple and into Your light. Amen.

Published by: Donald in Uncategorized

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