The power of temptation must not be overlooked. Anyone who thinks that he is exempt from the power of temptation becomes easy prey. Temptation's power is the attraction of deception. The appeal of temptation is to our selfish nature. Temptation attacks us through vision, imagination, and pleasant feelings. It is enticing, baiting our pleasure. It's power must be recognized.
Left to ourselves, temptation's lure can be overwhelming. Even when we know the risk, the possible cost, and shame, the pull toward temptation can seem irresistible. Temptation may say, "You can't help it." Stop. Listen. Help is there for you. God is with you. If you feel helpless, God's help is there. Ask for His help. "God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).
You may ask, "What is the way of escape from temptation?" Jesus said, "I am the way" (John 14:6). He is the way to the Father, who is faithful to those who are tempted. He provides the way of escape. Jesus understands temptation. He was tempted, yet without sin. Jesus overcame the deception of temptation through the truth of Scripture.
Don't flirt with temptation. It promises much, only as bait to deceive. Overcome temptation with the truth of God. Temptation's power is broken with a truth encounter. Jesus said, "If you abide in my word, you are my disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31-32). Temptation's power is broken with the truth.
