To him who is able to keep you from stumbling…
Jude 24
When we talk about learning to control our passions, we are talking about some of the greatest struggles that we face in the Christian life. And sometimes we feel so defeated in this area. So we need the kind of encouragement that only God is able to provide.
Who is Jude talking about? Who is able to keep us from stumbling (or falling)? Jesus Christ can keep us. That’s why we read in Titus: “The grace of God has appeared… training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age” (2:11–12).
You can learn to say “no.” There is a learning process here, but God’s grace will teach you as you walk with Him. By God’s grace you can do it. You do not need to fall.
Some of us are defeated before we start because we don’t believe it. The enemy has us all bound up, and we think, You have no idea how strong this passion is, or how long it has mastered me. Stop repeating the enemy’s lies. The grace of God has appeared, and it teaches us to renounce or say “no” to worldly passions. That means Jesus is able to keep you.
Victory begins when you start to believe this. Jesus can keep me. You do not need to make a bunch of foolish choices that will bring incredible pain to your life. He can keep you.
Do you have doubts about Jesus’ ability to keep you? Talk to God about your fears, and ask Him to help you take Him at His Word.
