Carefully Weigh Momentary Pleasures

It happened, late one afternoon, when David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof of the king’s house, that he saw from the roof a woman bathing, and the woman was very beautiful…so David sent messengers and took her, 2 Samuel 11:2, 3

History demonstrates that the natural inclination of the sinful human nature is to violate commitments if it brings momentary pleasure. We might make a commitment but if something better or more appealing comes along we will abandon that first commitment and switch to the next, more beneficial, lucrative, or attractive opportunity. Momentary pleasures may feel good for the moment but that does not mean they are the best choice or beneficial for our future. Before embracing a momentary pleasure, we should ask ourselves “how will this one moment of pleasure impact my every day, my future, my finances, and my relationships going forward?” That will help us have a better understanding and put things in better perspective for us.

David wasn’t the only human to give in to a momentary pleasure with lasting consequences. We all have in some way. Knowing and facing this about human nature we might be even more grateful Jesus did not desert us nor abandon his mission as he approached the cross and crucifixion, his hour of suffering. Grateful that although he was flesh, he denied any inclination or temptation to reject that path and kept his commitment to the Father to take on our sin and die in our place. Grateful Jesus did not give in to momentary pleasure. Let’s Pray

We are truly grateful Lord that you did not leave us nor forsake us nor your love in order to pursue a momentary pleasure. What trouble we would be in if you had! Thank you, Jesus for staying the course and dying in our place. Amen

Thoughts for reflection and questions for soul-Tending:

Have you ever been tempted by a momentary pleasure or abandoned your first commitment in order to experience a momentary pleasure? If so what was the result?

How will you incorporate today’s message into your plan of soul-care?