Fast forward 33 years, and you discover that he's been married numerous times, with children from several different relationships. He's no longer in ministry. He has few if any deep relationships. His life goals from his youth are shattered. His life has become a sad story of defeat rather than a great testimony of God's grace and victory.  

But my friend's story isn't that unusual. I've met many young men and women who began the race with the fire of God burning in their souls, but have finished defeated and saddened at what could have been a victorious run in life. What happens in such situation? Why do some of the most talented and gifted men and women of God find themselves defeated? Why do believers with such a passion for God end up drowning in the deep waters of sin and self?  

There are certainly many legitimate answers to those questions. But perhaps the initial response must be that every Christian is faced with choices everyday. Some of those choices are actually temptations. We must say "no" to Satan's cunning ways and "yes" to God. If we don't we may find ourselves on a slippery path that leads to spiritual death and defeat.  

The wrong choices in life may begin with a subtle look, a flirtatious smile or wink. We then begin making choices about fulfilling the lusts of our hearts. We act upon those things that would alienate us from God and drag us into defeat. The Bible says, "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world" (1 John 2:16 NAS).  

As long as we live in this world, we're going to have to make choices in three areas of life: 1) the lust of the flesh; 2) the lust of the eyes; and 3) the boastful pride of life. Sin is no respecter of persons. If we choose any one of those areas, they will destroy us. How do we then overcome such temptations? How do we make the right decisions in life? How do we put our feet on the highway to holiness rather than the slippery slope of sin?  

Our hearts must be set apart for God. We must passionately long to know and love Him more than we desire the passing pleasures of sin. We must hunger and thirst for His righteousness. When our hearts long to love Him, then we will have the strength to reject sin and embrace Christ. Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other…." (Matt. 6:24 NIV). Every morning when you awaken, make a decision.

Choose to love and serve Jesus. Before you ever place a foot outside your door, choose to passionately follow Christ. Make the right choice long before the temptation faces you. The right choices in life will lead to long-term victory. Choose Jesus. He is our victory.