Temptations

The Iowa State Fair is one of the most temptation-filled places I know. At least for those of us who are watching what we eat. The air is filled with smells that draw us in, increasing our temptation. The fragrance of mini donuts freshly made, baked cinnamon rolls, fried corn dogs, grilled lamb burgers, pork chops on a stick, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, beef sundaes, turkey legs, funnel cakes, fried cheese curds, and about anything you can imagine deep-fried on a stick or grilled.

It is easy enough to avoid the food temptations by keeping walking past the booths and seeking out something healthy. I turn to the upstairs of the horticulture building where we can find fresh salads and fresh veggies on a stick, or even down below the egg council is handing out free hard-boiled eggs. The grilled choices are good compared to the deep-fat fried options.

"When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed," (James 1:13-14 NIV).

There are plenty of evil food desires at the State Fair but God promises help for the weak-spine among us. But they can also be an indulgence, which can be okay, too.

"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 stand up under it," (1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV).

Thank you, God, for being there for us whenever we need you.