If something is described as being good, a delight, and desirable, what could possibly be wrong with it?

The problem with the alluring description above is that it has been removed from its context which follows: “When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened . . .” And, this is the moment when death violated the human experience.

Eve’s fatal mistake occurred when she tuned God out and turned her attention to the Siren call of the Serpent. The song was both devious and deceptive and these are the shadowy veil of desire.

We need to be aware of the dark side of desire that can quickly ensnare us with greed or some other compulsive behavior; and, like the Serpent’s discussion with Eve, there is never a full disclosure of the fatal consequences of uncontrolled desire.

If the addict could see the end results of his drug use, would he have ever injected himself the first time? Would the alcoholic have taken the first drink?

The Apostle Paul warns us; don’t let anyone take you “captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”

When we feel the firm grip of desire, we need to quiet the static of the world and listen for the clear voice of God. David faced the power of desire at different times in his life. He discovered the key to success and wrote about in Psalm 119:9-11.

If you are struggling with some unwanted wants and some undesirable desires, let me make a simple suggestion: Set an alarm on your cell phone or computer that will ring at 9:11 each day for the next week. When it rings, read Psalm 119:9-11, and the principle of this verse will help give you the strength you need.

Think About It!