Today is April 9.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from the book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 10.  
 

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
 
  
Well, it seems today is a good time to think about any areas of temptation you might be facing! As you do that at the start of our prayer time, remember that God is faithful! In light of His faithfulness, and in the realization that temptation is a common part of being human, do a bit of self-examination and ask: where am I being tempted right now?  
   
Temptation takes different forms for all of us. For some, temptation centers around things like substances, or sex. For others, it’s temptation to rely on our own wisdom, solutions, or plans. Or temptation to anger, to control, or to selfish ways of living. Also, we shouldn't only think about temptation as an individualistic thing. Over the course of history, Christians have faced corporate temptations: to idolatry. To power. To self-gain. Listen to the scripture again with that in mind, and be curious about what ‘corporate temptations’ you sense trying to distract you. 
   
Paul makes clear that the power and presence of God strengthens us to stand firm. One thing I’ve found to be true in following Jesus is this: when it comes to temptation, small yesses end up snowballing into big yesses. In other words, it’s the small, wise choices that defend us from falling into big, unruly temptations. Are there some small areas in your life where you are not practicing wise choices. Small areas where you’re not demonstrating self-control, or patience, or faithfulness? As we close in prayer, can you make a commitment to say Yes to God today over one area of your life?

Lord God, Almighty and Everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with Your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of Your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   

Music - Faithful One - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)