Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Temptation - Our Daily Battle


Temptation is something that we will battle everyday of our lives. The enemy is constantly using bait such as physical desires, possessions, power, and pride to lure us into disobedience. He knows that our spirit is willing but our body is weak. The enemy knows that sin leads to death so he will be determined to deceive us and get us to disobey God. But if we resist the devil he will flee from us. (James 4:7) But how do we do that?

Jesus set the example for us when we he was tempted in the wilderness by satan. (Matt. 4:1-11) Christ defeated the enemy by responding with the truth of God’s Word. Every time satan spoke to Jesus our Lord responded saying “It is written”. This is the same as saying the "Word of God says". We need to know what the Word of God says in order to withstand the attack of the enemy. He knows what the Word says also and he will try to manipulate it and twist it so that we are confused and unsure. It is in spending time with God in prayer and in studying the bible that we will be equipped and alert ready to defeat temptation.

Jesus is also there to help us when we are being tempted. He knows what we go through and how we are tempted because he was tempted too, although he never sinned. So we can go to God and receive mercy and grace to help us in our times of need. (Hebrews 4:15-16) The temptations in our lives are no different from what others experience. God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than we can stand. When we are tempted, he will show us a way out so that we can endure. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

God has given us common sense so let us properly evaluate our situations and avoid temptation. Recognize what people or situations cause us temptation and stay away so that we do not stumble. We need to run from anything that gives us evil thoughts and stay close to anything that makes us want to do right. It is good to enjoy the companionships of those who love the Lord and have pure hearts. These are the types of friends that we can trust to help keep us accountable and encourage us not to sin. (2 Timothy 2:22)

Remember that the Holy Spirit that lives inside of us is more powerful than anything in this world and you can defeat temptation because you are no longer a slave to sin. Walk in the wisdom that comes from knowing the Word of God and you will truly begin to comprehend and experience that the Word is truly sharper than any doubled-edged sword. You CAN win this daily battle against temptation in Jesus name! Amen..

1 comment:

Christop said...

Thanks for your comment on my blog!

My God is Faithful!

My God is Faithful!
Psalm 40:1-3 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.He lifted me out of the slimy pit,out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.