Monday, May 20, 2019

When You're Tempted

Temptation is no respecter of persons. It comes to everyone sooner or later. Temptation's lure can seem overwhelming. To give up and give in is always the easy way. Yet, there is a better way. First, admit your weakness and inability. Most importantly, trust God to deliver you from temptation's snare. God is able. He can give you the victory.

In times of temptation, Jesus offers you a suggested prayer to our Father in heaven: "And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13a). Your temptation is your spiritual warfare. It is not won by will power; it's won by God's power.

Remember, God has all power in heaven and on other. To God we say, "For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever" (Matthew 6:13b). God's power is forever. God's power can deliver you from any and every temptation. Trust God to do in you what you cannot do without Him.

Delivered from one temptation does not mean you will not be tempted again. Your spiritual warfare is ongoing. Take it one day at a time. Temptation is defeated one day at a time. The evil one is persistent. Temptation is defeated not because we are strong, but because God is faithful to deliver His people.