We live in a world where temptation is hiding around every corner and under every stone. Sadly, most of us find few victories and are left with a faith that needs to continually play catch up between our desires and our actions.
Jesus knows exactly what its like to face temptation. In fact, today we look at the temptations Jesus faced while in the desert and we will see how they’re identical to ours and the categories John identifies as the (1) lust of the flesh, (2) lust of the eyes, (3) the pride of life.
The striking contrast with Jesus, however, is that in the face of unbearable hunger and vulnerability He doesn’t give in! Jesus conquers the devils best shots, and where we so easily give in, Jesus remains true and faithful. He has thereby become our helper, savior, and rescuer.
1 John 2:15-17
“15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
Genesis 3:6
“When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.”
Hebrews 4:15
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.”
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.”
- How are you doing with temptation?
- Are you able to identify the sound of deceit?
- Are you carrying your “sword” today?