Temptation. It happens to all of us. While we are in this life, we are going to be tempted. Let’s remember, however, temptation itself is not a sin. Hebrews 4:15 tells us that “[Jesus] has been tempted in every way, just as we are-yet was without sin.” (You can read about his temptation in the opening verses of Matthew 4 & Luke 4.)
Jesus was absolutely sinless and yet suffered temptation. Very often temptation hits us at the point of our weaknesses. We are tempted to drink, or watch pornography, or get angry, or indulge in the weaknesses of our flesh. We usually expect temptation in those areas.
Other times we are tempted at the point of our strengths. If we have much talent, we are led by the enemy of our soul to pride. If we are influential, we might be tempted to use that to manipulate others. If we have successes, we often are tempted toward self-reliance. Jesus was tempted to turn stones into bread to satisfy his physical hunger at the end of a 40-day fast. The enemy wouldn’t bother us with that temptation because he already knows we don’t have the capability of turning rocks into dinner rolls.
I remember hearing Rick Warren say that God will never get angry with you for being tempted. In fact, God’s promise is exactly the opposite, He promises to help, “God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can’t stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it.” [1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT]
Father, thank you for the promise to lead us from temptation. Thank you for the power of Your Spirit in us. Amen
