H.A.L.T.

Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV)

When evil goes unpunished, people begin to think that since So-and-so is doing it and got away with it, it must be okay. Sort of as children who come to parents and ask for they know is wrong, but “everyone is doing it.” There are evil things, and men are fully set to do them.

The battle against these things must not be lost simply because punishment does not occur speedily. And, that battle begins in our own minds. We must know what is good as well as what is evil. The Bible confirms there is such a thing as evil. Christ’s example prayer mentions it.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:13 KJV)

He also said it can be within us and that it is the opposite of good.

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. (Matthew 12:35 KJV)

James tells us that temptations are not from God.

Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. (James 1:13-14 KJV)

Paul tells us temptation can be overcome.

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV)

Evil is deceptive. It does not appear as such, but will look good and it will be something we desire. Paul wrote about how it affected him:

For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. (Romans 7:15 KJV)

It has been said that Satan tempts us during vulnerable moments. We’ve been cautioned that when we are hungry, angry, lonely, or tired, we can be vulnerable. I’ve heard this called the HALT warning – and it is good to stop and think twice under these conditions. During those second thoughts, ask whether what we are about to do fits in any of the following categories.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8 KJV)

As Christians, we should walk closely with Jesus. Staying close by reading His word, being in prayer and fellowshipping with other believers. As Paul said:

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11 KJV)