Carl's Thoughts On - Temptation
Ah temptation, it is common to man, (and woman).
Something or course of action that attracts or "tempts" someone. A desire to do something, especially something wrong or unwise.
Some people think it is a weakness or a sin, however the temptation is not a sin but the giving into it might well be.
Everyone has been tempted at one time or another. The temptation may be to cheat on a test, or may be tempted to cheat on their taxes.
Common temptations include eating too much, spending too much, laziness, venting on social media, gossiping, feeling jealous, viewing pornography, lying or cheating and abusing alcohol.
There are multiple ways temptation comes at us. And you may hear an excuse like "no one will know", or "it doesn't hurt anyone."
Most of us face temptations everyday; some are easier to turn away from than others.
The bible definition basically is that temptation is 'a trial in which man has a free choice of being faithful or unfaithful to God'.
Satan uses temptations to entice or seduce us to turn from God.
Everyone including people who follow Jesus and who have faith are exposed to temptation. But God provides a way out of temptation so we don't have to give in to it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (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.)
Temptations come swiftly sometime before we know it we are pulled away. How then can we resist temptation? We should follow the example set by Christ.
In Matthew chapter 4, Satan tries to get Jesus to deviate from the plan by misusing his authority and privileges. Jesus used the Holy Scripture to resist all such temptation.
We can always pray for the Lord's help.
Lord, I know that the trials and temptations of this world I face come from the devil. I pray that You give me Your armor and protection against him and all the temptations I face now. I ask that I stand firm in Your strength and not rely on myself. In Jesus' name, I pray, amen.
Carl A. Gooch ~ 20 July 2024
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