Taming Temptation

For 40 days Jesus was tested by the devil, and during that time he went without eating. When it was all over, he was hungry.

Luke 4:2 (CEV)

Jesus stood on top of a hill, weak, hungry, and tired. The devil came to him, “Just take care of yourself. Waiting for God isn’t necessary.” And then, swirling before him was the whole world: riches from every kingdom, people from every nation, all the powers of the armies. “I will give it all to you, if you just . . . worship me.”

At his weakest moment, Jesus was offered everything he could possibly want. He was being tempted by the devil himself.

But Jesus knew the consequences. If he failed, the world would be lost. If he failed, he would be forever separated from his Father, God.

It is not wrong to be tempted. Jesus, the perfect human being, was tempted just like we are. Those thoughts that suddenly fill your head, the rage that blows up inside, the craving that takes a hold of you . . . Jesus felt these emotions, too. But he modeled how to say no, and he promises to help us.

In this world, you will be tempted to do wrong. Pray. Hold to the truth of the Bible. And look for the promised escape route God provides. Just like Jesus overcame temptation, you can, too.

SPIRITUAL FITNESS TRAINING

What are the temptations that have been hard for you to shake? Write them down in a journal or piece of paper and take some time today to pray for the strength to overcome each. Return to this page at the end of the week and write down how God helped you. You will be amazed by his help and strength!

PRAY

Jesus, I’m sometimes tempted to do things that don’t honor you. Please help me say no like you did.

KEEP IT GOING

Related passages: These additional verses will help you expand Scriptural knowledge and put on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Read through the following passages today in the tabbed Bible References.

Proverbs 28:10

Lamentations 3:40

1 Corinthians 10:13

Hebrews 2:18