Temptations

In His Name Devotionals
TEMPTATIONS

“And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” (Matthew 6:13)

When you hear the English word “temptation,” you usually think of a solicitation to evil. But ‘temptation’ in Matthew :13 can refer either to a trial that God permits in order to refine our spiritual character (James 1:2-4) or a ‘temptation’ that Satan or our flesh brings to incite us to sin (Matthew 4:1; James 1:13-15). Both are valid translations.

Even though you know God uses trials for our good, it’s still good to pray that He won’t allow you to be caught in a trial that becomes an irresistible temptation. That can happen if you are spiritually weak or ill-prepared to deal with a situation.

God will never test you beyond what you are able to endure (1 Corinthians 10:13), but resisting temptation requires spiritual discipline and divine resources. Praying for God to deliver you from trials that might overcome you is a safe- guard against leaning on your own strength and neglecting His power.

God tested Joseph by allowing him to be sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused by an adulterous woman, and unjustly imprisoned by a jealous husband. But Joseph knew that God’s hand was on his life. That’s why he could later say to his brothers, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to...preserve many people alive” (Genesis 50:20). Joseph was ready for the test and passed it beautifully.

Jesus Himself was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 4:1). God wanted to test Him to prove His virtue, but Satan wanted to tempt Him to destroy His virtue. Jesus, too, was victorious.

When you experience trials, don’t let them turn into temptations. Recognize God’s purposes and seek His strength. Learn from the example of those who have successfully endured the same trials. Be assured that God is in control and is using each trial to mold your character and to teach you greater dependence on Him.