Joe and Jessa I have some really red bug bites. I got them last Friday while watching Joe put up our tent in the far meadow behind our home. The mosquitoes that I could see didn't cause me any harm. It was the ones that sneaked up and bit under my wrist. The desire to scratch is still overwhelming!

Medically, I am advised not to scratch. If I do the poison will spread and I can damage my skin, creating scars. Much to my chagrin I am physically not able to scratch anything because of my ALS. However, I have learned a priceless lesson in the process of itching. The urge eventually goes away! Actually, EVERY itch I experience daily eventually stops if I don't scratch!

Spiritually, sin and bad habits are itches! The desire to participate (scratch) is powerful and instantly gratifying. The consequence of yielding to temptations is that it only escalates our desires. Giving into the urges scars not only us, but the people around us. God has given us the capacity to resist temptations. Don't Scratch!

James 1:12-15

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial,

for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life,

which God has promised to those who love him.

Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,”

for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one.

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.