We’ve all seen it so many times – a person walks with the Lord for decades and then suddenly has a massive fall.
While it can be easy to point our fingers and judge them, it’s crucial we look at the log lodged within our own eye and guard our own selves from slipping – lest we fall and shipwreck our own faith.
Here are three common traps that can snatch any of us – and tips to help guard yourself against them.
The Love Of This World
As believers, we intellectually know this world is not our home.
But do we live like that?
The world is always pushing the latest and greatest shiny new idea or toy – tempting us to come try it out and live our “best life now” or “follow your heart.”
And instead of being salt and light to a decaying world – we become OF the world – and live no different than our non-believing friends.
Keeping an eternal perspective and reminding yourself daily that this world is not your home will keep you humble and focused on what God has planned for your life.
Deception
Many of us think we are “better” than we are – and in our foolish pride – that’s usually when we fall the hardest.
“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:12
We shouldn’t walk around in fear – but we should ask God daily to search our hearts and remove any thorns or bristles choking us.
Oftentimes we are blind to our own sin – we can’t even see it.
The deception that we are on the “right path” when we aren’t can lead to a deadly fall.
This is also why it’s crucial to seek accountability and have other believers ensure you’re holding true to the faith.
Lust For Riches And Pleasure
When we aren’t satisfied with the gracious gifts God has given us – we will always lust and hunger for more.
It’s never enough.
And as we focus our time and thoughts on acquiring more possessions, earning more money, or indulging in the pleasures of this world – we forget the true reason why we are here.
Money, material possessions, and enjoying good food are not evil in themselves – but an unhealthy obsession and love of them are.
Satan is the ultimate deceiver and a liar – and he often tempts Christians into thinking sin is “harmless” … but remember, it took Eve only one bite of the apple out of defiance to God to throw man and woman from the garden.
Keep The Faith
The key to living a straight life is to stay on the narrow path.
Sure, we all get tangled in storms and slip, but it’s important to get right back up and not take the detour through the forbidden forest.
And if we keep the faith and hold fast to serving God, there’ll be no sweeter words than when He says, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
What are some traps you are prone to fall into?
How can you safeguard your faith?
You can post your answers on our Facebook page and see what others are thankful for too.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
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