Daily Power #314

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. (1 Peter 1:13)

Learning to play tennis is easy; playing it well requires a lot of hard work. One of the best tennis coaches I ever had taught me to visualize my serve before the ball left my hand and I raised my racquet. He helped me imagine each part of the process in slow motion so that I could learn greater control and improve my speed and strength. From him I learned that the mental aspect of the game is every bit as important as the physical part.

Years later as I was trying to teach one of my kids how to serve, I realized that we can also benefit from visualizing our obedience to God. When we see ourselves facing temptation and obeying God, we increase the likelihood of successfully resisting sin when our Enemy attacks. It’s no guarantee, but such “obedience training” can definitely help us.

So often the devil tempts us in weak moments, when we’re physically tired, mentally fatigued, or emotionally troubled. If we’ve mentally rehearsed a God-honoring response to tempting situations beforehand, we can remain strong. We will be prepared when the Enemy tries to exploit our weakness. We will focus on pleasing God instead of the immediate gratification that our sin offers.

Today imagine yourself facing temptation and obeying God rather than giving in. Prepare mentally today for what you will face tomorrow.

Power Lift

Thank you for my imagination, Lord, and for the way it can help me remain obedient and faithful to your calling on my life. Strengthen my resolve today as I face temptation.