Temptation

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Have any of us been tempted? Of course, we are all tempted at different times and in different ways. But God has given us options to keep us from falling. I got this from one of my devotion booklets.

First, there is God’s Word. Knowing the Word helps us discern right from wrong and declaring the Word, the Sword of the Spirit, (Ephesians 6:17), is a powerful weapon. Know the Word.

Second, we can avoid places and situations where we might be tempted. Don’t go there!

Third, we can avoid people who might pressure us to participate in sin. “But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother, (or sister),  but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a verbal abuser, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a person do not even eat.” (1 Corinthians 5:11).

Fourth, don’t allow your eyes to roam. Don’t look! You might say, “Oh, that caught my eye.” Well, it can’t catch your eye unless you cast your eye upon it! Don’t look! Job said, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman, (or man).” (Job 31:1).

Jesus said three times when He was tempted in the wilderness, (Matthew 4:1-11), “It is written!” We must have God’s Word sharpened and ready to use when the enemy comes with his temptations. Submit to God, resist the devil, put on the full armor of God, receive the authority and backing of Heaven and …stand!