Avoiding Common Pitfalls, Part One
Yesterday, I wrote about four temptations disabled people are likely to face – missing the assembly, complaining, rudeness, and selfishness. I know very well that my brethren throughout the world face these same temptations, whether or not they suffer from a disability; Satan is an equal opportunity tempter. However, persons suffering from chronic illnesses are prone to face these temptations.
In today’s post, I want to share with you some ways to overcome these temptations. I wrote a couple weeks ago about how to overcome temptation, and I do not plan to repeat anything today. Instead, over the next couple of days, I want to zero in on the four temptations I mentioned yesterday and discuss specific strategies for overcoming them. “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11) – together, let’s “stand against the schemes of the devil.”
- Missing the Assembly When I’m tempted to miss the assembly, I would do well to remember:
- God is worthy of my worship (Revelation 4:11); I need to fall before the throne of the One worthy of my praise.
- Every good gift is from God (James 1:17); I need to express my thankfulness in worship.
- Jesus suffered a great deal for me: Surely I can get out of bed and worship!
- I’m going to hurt no matter where I am; I might as well hurt in the assembly.
- Brethren all over the world face great obstacles to worship; if they suffer persecution to worship, surely I can worship in my illness.
- Complaining When I’m tempted to complain, I would do well to remember:
- People are suffering far more than I.
- God is with me (Hebrews 13:5-6).
- Complaining changes nothing.
- People don’t want to hear me complain.
- I have a future home where no suffering will be known (Revelation 21:4)
Tomorrow I’ll give some suggestions for putting away rudeness and selfishness. Until then, be blessed!
I suffer from self pity.