May 15, 2018

"We gain the strength of the temptation we resist." Ralph Waldo Emerson.

To yield to temptation is to be mastered by it; to resist is to become master over it. Problem is, it's far easier to yield than resist.

There is much to learn from the temptation of Jesus. The devil sought to lure Him according to His perceived greatest weakness: bread after fasting, kingdom power at the wrong time and from the wrong source, reckless use of divine protection. In each temptation, Jesus skillfully brought pertinent Scripture to bear to resist temptation; even when Satan himself quoted Scripture! (Luke 4.10-11)

The three biblical responses of Jesus are temptation safeguards:  "It is written, 'man shall not live on bread alone' ... It is written, 'you shall worship the LORD your God and serve him only' ... It is said, 'you shall not put the LORD your God to the test.'" (Luke 4.4,8,12)

Resist the temptation to indulge various appetites. Keep your Father central. Yield always to Him, rather than place expectations upon Him. Above all, so immerse yourself in Scripture that it becomes your defense in the face of temptation. "Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You." (Psalm 119.11)

Temptation is an ever-present reality in a fallen world. The enemy is adept at bringing it to bear on our greatest weakness. But, our assurance is this: "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it." (1 Corinthians 10.13)

Steve

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