Temptation?

“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” (James 1:14)

Temptation – The strong desire or allure to do something, often seen as wrong, unwise, or immoral, threatening long-term goals. Notice the last part of this definition. God’s goals? Romans 3:23 says that we all have sinned. So, what makes us sin? The above verse says it’s something in us, something we desire. I’ve never been tempted to step out in front of a speeding car. But there are things we all are tempted to do. The devil has a lot to do with it. He can’t read our minds but he’s been around for a long time and he notices things. He’ll try anything. However, he is very sly about temptation. We will never see a red creature with horns and a pointed tail trying to get you to do something. No, he, “Comes as an angel of light”, (2 Corinthians 11:14), he tricks us. And he doesn’t give up. When he couldn’t get Jesus, he left Him, “for a more opportune time”. (Luke 4:13). Look out! However, God has given us a weapon to use against him…”It is written!” (Matthew 4:4). So, we have to know God’s Word and use it in every tempting situation. Don’t be without your Full Armor of God on and the Sword of the Spirit which is His Word. Submit to God and resist the devil. (James 4:7).

Let’s say you’re on the Path of Life and you see an exit sign with something very tempting on it. You need to know God’s Word in order to avoid the temptation. Listen, “You will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way. Follow it.” (Isaiah 30:21). And, we must learn from our past mistakes. Let’s say you went down a side path once and ended up falling in a deep hole. Are you going to go that way again? No! You’ve learned your lesson. And Holy Spirit warned you not to go the first time. Learn from your mistakes.

We must ask God to forgive us, cleanse us from all sin, know God is with us and, when temptation comes, SAY NO! Watch out, you’re going to be tempted. Be ready.