Flirting

TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 4:17-32
Let me ask a question. Do you think it's OK that I flirt with other women from time to time? It's not really that bad is it? When I go out to eat with a group of friends it's kind of fun to flirt with the waitress and see what she says. Maybe she'll smile or even wink at me. It really helps me feel like I still have it.
OK. Stop. Before you pick up the phone and call one of the elders, finish reading this.
Of course I was kidding about flirting with other women. But how many of us flirt with sin all the time? And the really disturbing thing is that some approach it with the same attitude as the one I discussed above.
As Paul writes to the churches around Ephesus they seem to be struggling with a similar attitude. They claim to be followers of Jesus but some of their choices don't show their new nature. It's like they want to hang on to some of their sinful "hobbies."
Unfortunately for many Christians, especially those who have grown up in the church, it seems like we develop unhealthy habits that breed lust and deception and never think anything of it. Things that contradict our new nature in Jesus remain a part of who we are. Attitudes and behaviors that harden hearts are permitted to continue.
Why do Christians flirt with impurity, greed, and immorality? I think we often fail to see how Satan uses small steps to create a big fall. Have you ever had this conversation with yourself?
"It's just (fill in the blank). It's no big deal."
"What's wrong with _______? I am just having a little fun."
This is often what the same person's conversation sounds like later...
"How did I get here?"
"I never saw this coming."
"I didn't think this would ever happen to me."
It's time for us to start acting like the bride of Christ as opposed to Jesus' casual date. Two thousand years ago Paul warned the church to get rid of everything that leads to sin and undergo a spiritual renewal. Things haven't changed much. The struggles are the same, Satan has only changed the tools he uses.
Stop for just a minute and look deep into your life. Where is Satan using small openings to grow impurity, greed, and immorality? What choices are you making that hurt not only you but maybe even others around you? What do you need to change so that you can become the person God created you to be - righteous, holy, and true?

shine!
Jason