Monday, November 22nd
Read James 1:13-15
And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.
The pattern of sin is described in this passage. First, we are enticed and tempted by our own sinful nature and then that temptation leads to sin and all its consequences.
- Why do you think sin is such an easy trap for most people to fall into?
- In what ways does the world’s view of morality conflict with God’s view?
- How have you seen your life or the life of someone you know impacted by sin?
Tuesday, November 23rd
Read Ephesians 5:1-6
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him.
Paul instructs us to not only flee from sexual immorality, but that that there should not be any hint of immorality in our lives.
- What are some of the defenses and safeguards you have in place that help put distance between you and sin?
- In what areas of your life are you lacking moral margin? How can you go about creating that margin?
Wednesday, November 24th
Read Romans 6:12-14
Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace.
In these verses, Paul tells us that we should not give in to sin with our bodies, but rather offer our bodies to God as instruments of righteousness.
- God has called us to a higher standard when it comes to morality. Describe how you have been able to live up to that standard and how difficult it can be striving to live up to that standard.
- How can people such as your small group, friends, family, or spouse help you in living a life with moral margin?
Thursday, November 25th
Read Psalm 51:7-12
Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me—now let me rejoice. Don’t keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.
David messed up. He confessed his sin to God and asked for forgiveness and restoration.
- What are some specific areas where you have messed up?
- What is preventing you from fully accepting God’s forgiveness?
- What steps do you need to take to begin or continue on a process of restoration?
Friday, November 26th
Here are some specific things you can do this week to take a step toward living life with the margin God intends for your life.
If you are struggling with any type of sin, God is offering you a chance to get free. Seek help this week from a professional counselor, pastor, friend, family member, or accountability partner. Allow them to help you find the assistance you need in dealing with your sin and in finding ways to guard against that temptation in the future.
Saturday, November 27th
Use these prayer tips to guide your time with God this week.
- Confess to God in prayer any areas of immorality that you are struggling with. Ask for His help and deliverance.
- Ask God to help you in defending yourself against immorality in your life.
- Ask God in prayer for strength in guarding yourself from impure thoughts.
- Pray and ask God to reveal to you those areas in your life where you need moral margin. Ask Him to help you achieve it.
- Pray for those you know who are dealing with sexual sin and its aftermath. Ask God to comfort them and deliver them.
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