Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to death.  James 1:15

Temptation is deceptively disguised. Just like the bait used by fishermen to entice their catch, temptation looks good—at first.  When we’re lured in by sin, we don’t think about the sting of the hook. So often, we just take the bait because we don’t see where that temptation is leading us. Yet, in this verse, we are clearly cautioned about where this dangerous path leads. 

Sin has its kicks. But it also has some serious kickbacks. Don’t allow yourself to fall for the evil one’s trick and think that you’ve gotten away with something. Time always reveals the truth and brings sin and its consequences to light.  God wants you to avoid those consequences. But to do that, you need help in recognizing the bait Satan uses to try and lure you away from God’s plan. God is ready to help you identify the areas where sinful desires have started so you can eliminate them before they become full grown.

Dear God, when I face times of temptation it is easy to be short-sighted and not see the long-term results. Help me to recognize temptation as well as the full grown sin in my life, so that I can turn from it and follow you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.