Triggers

Triggers: Let's define a trigger as anything that makes me more vulnerable to temptation.

Today we will talk about triggers that, in general, affect us all. I am not saying that falling into the temptation is inevitable. Quite the contrary. Being aware of triggers means to have an awareness of when I am more vulnerable so I can turn to God and others for help. In 2 Cor. 12:10 it says: "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
James 5:16 says: "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

It can also help me support, encourage, and have compassion when someone I love is more vulnerable to temptation. Lets have a look.

HALT-BS.

H-Hungry: This could be a literal, physical hunger or it could be some kind of emotional hunger or need.

A-Anger: A reaction to a perceived injustice. Anger can also signal a "blocked goal." If I am angry, particularly an un-righteous anger, I am more vulnerable to temptation.

L-Lonely: This could be as simple as being alone, but I can feel lonely even when I am with others.

T-Tired: This can be physically tired, lack of sleep, or emotionally drained.

B-Bored: a person is more prone to giving into temptation when they are bored and when they have no particular direction they are headed. This is not to say that relaxing and rest are not important-they are. It's about having a balance and an awareness.

S-Stressed: the more stress I am under, the more I am vulnerable to temptation. Keep this in mind and don't ever get the illusion that you are Superman. It's true that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," but I have to remember that these are the "all things" that God has called me to do and has ordained for me to do.

When I'm aware of my weaknesses and my triggers, I'm aware of my humanity and my need for the Lord. The more I humble myself and own my weakness, the more I can lean into and join in with His strength.

~Mark