At Lakeview Christian Church, our centennial celebration is more than just a look back—it’s a call to live out a faith that makes a difference every day. As we reflect on the words of Pastor Jim Gindlesberger, we’re reminded that temptation is a universal experience, and everyday faith is what equips us to face it, not just on Sundays, but at work, at home, and in every unseen moment.

“Temptation shows us the pleasure and hides the consequences, the things that will eventually bring destruction. God’s commands require us to say no to what looks attractive in the moment and yes to what ultimately leads to eternal life.”

This message is as relevant on a Monday morning as it is on a Sunday afternoon, and it’s at the heart of our mission: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. At Lakeview, we seek to live out this transformation through our “Just 3” model—Study, Share, and Serve.

The Deceptive Nature of Temptation

Temptation is powerful because it offers short-term pleasure while masking long-term consequences. We see this pattern from the very beginning—Eve in the garden, lured by the forbidden fruit, and each of us, daily, facing choices that test our resolve.

James 1:14-15 (ESV) warns us:

“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”

Temptation is never just about the action—it’s about what’s happening in our hearts. It promises satisfaction but ultimately delivers disappointment or even destruction.

Four Questions to Disarm Temptation

Pastor Jim challenged us to ask four questions whenever temptation whispers in our ear:

What is it?
Identify the temptation clearly. Naming it brings it into the light.
What’s this temptation promising me?
Is it promising comfort, escape, power, or control? Recognize the false promise.
What will it cost me?
Every “yes” to temptation comes with a price. What relationships, peace, or integrity are at stake?
What does the Bible say about it?
God’s Word is our ultimate authority. The psalmist writes,“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11, ESV)
Do I really believe that God’s way is better?
This is the ultimate test of faith. Do we trust that God’s path leads to true and lasting joy?

Everyday Faith: Not Just For Sundays

Faith isn’t just for special occasions or when life is going smoothly. Pastor Jim reminded us that “everyday faith recognizes temptation and trusts God’s goodness.” This means living out faith in the small, unseen moments—at work, in the car, or when no one is watching.

Jesus modeled this for us. In the wilderness, tempted by Satan, He responded not with clever arguments but with the Word of God (Matthew 4:1-11, ESV). He trusted His Father’s goodness above the empty promises of the enemy.

The “Just 3” Model: Your Next Step in Discipleship

At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe in practical steps for spiritual growth. Our “Just 3” model is simple but transformative:

Study: Love and Know God

Intentional Bible study is the foundation. When we study God’s Word, we see the truth about temptation, about ourselves, and about God’s goodness.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, ESV)

Share: Know and Love Others

Faith flourishes in community. Share your struggles and victories with trusted friends. Confession and encouragement break the power of secrecy.

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16, ESV)

Serve: Love in Action

Serving others redirects our focus from self to others. Love in action is a powerful antidote to selfish desires.

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13, ESV)

Be the Change: From Temptation to Transformation

As we celebrate 100 years of God’s faithfulness at Lakeview Christian Church, let’s commit to being the change—as Jesus has changed us. When temptation comes: