Releasing the Strongholds

One common thread runs through my family, unfortunately, which is, "money in—money out." I’m bad for that, as are my husband and kids--with one exception. For Graham, a dollar made is a dollar saved. He was just born that way I guess, because while he should have, he didn’t learn it from me. I try to save, but I usually break down the moment I walk into the first home decorating store.

Graham started off earning three dollars a week allowance. Once he saved fifty dollars, I added ten, and once he earned a hundred, I added twenty. I was amazed to see this kid saving $3.00 x 33 weeks without spending a dime. So I raised his allowance to $5.00 this year to match his sisters, who spends like her wallet’s on fire.

The other day we all piled into the car for a Slurpee run. That’s another common thread in our family, which must be genetic, they all love Slupees--just like their dad! Whether it’s 80 degrees or thirty below they pile into the store every Saturday filling their cups with slush.

I heard something interesting this summer, when as usual we pulled into the 7-11 parking lot. While the kids were piling out of the car a little voice broke out from the back seat, “Can I stay here, Mom?” Graham asked.

“Why, it’s hot in here,” I answered. “Don’t you want to come in with us?”

“No, if I go in with you, I’ll just want to spend my money. So, if it’s ok, I’d rather stay here,” he said.

It took that little guy with his big courage to remind me of the path that leads us into temptation, “But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.” ~ James 1:14 And the danger we face each time we step into a situation that we know could potentially lead us into temptation.

It only takes one step to start the process of releasing those strongholds, but the same holds true for the opposite. It only takes one step of courage to step back and begin the good fight. Sure we might fail from time to time as we strive to overcome temptation in our lives. In fact human nature tells me that the likelihood is good. But if you take three steps forward and one step back, you’ll still arrive at your destination, right? Keep making the choice to move on everyday.

Our lives our filled with temptations of every kind. Little secrets we hide in our closets away from the world, but they don’t have to remain there. Each little step we take in faith toward those goals set before us add up. If Graham can save a hundred dollars on three dollars a week, you can too. Just keep up the good fight, and remember that God is your source of strength, and through Him we find peace.

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. ~ James 1:12



Visit my blog at: Darlene Schacht.com