Temptation

Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

— 1 Corinthians 7:5

Beautiful chocolates tempt us to forgo good health choices. A comfy couch invites us to relax instead of exercising. These are choices that impact our bodies, temples of the Holy Spirit, which were created by God.

Other enticements might invite us to lie about someone else or spread gossip that is hurtful to another person. We often think that sexual immorality only hurts ourselves, but that’s not the case. All of these sins chip away at our integrity and our relationships, and we cannot walk away from them unscathed.

But what are we to do? Temptation is ever-present in our society.

Jesus understands. He faced more temptation than we will ever know. The story as recorded in Matthew 4 reveals that Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness, and then Satan offered Him everything He could want—if He would just bow down.

We often think that we’ll be happy if we have that one thing we desperately want. We think taking or saying or stealing that one thing will fulfill us. But Jesus knew what it was to want and to be hungry and He was still without sin. He didn’t give into temptation, and we don’t have to either. When we face temptation, we should follow Christ’s example.

• Know what Scripture says. Jesus defeated Satan with the truth of God’s Word. We must know it to use it.
• Recognize who has the power. The enemy will tell you that he does, but we know that the victory belongs to the Lord. Trust in His power.
• Start and end each day with gratitude. When you acknowledge God you remember that He is in charge. That helps you keep your attitude and heart right.

Temptations will come, so we must walk closely with God so we’re prepared to resist them when they do.

Today’s One Thing

Start your day with God. Memorize today’s verse and ask God to give you strength to overcome whatever temptations arise.

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