First of all I am reminded that temptation is not a sin. Jesus lead a sinless life on earth to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins. Even Jesus was tempted in the desert and yet He was able to resist temptation. It is our calling as Christians to be obedient to the Lord and to resist
the devil and his temptations.
How did Jesus resist temptation? Notice verse 1
1 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert…
The Holy Spirit. Our God is so amazing, that he pours out His Holy Spirit upon us to help us, to guide us, comfort us and give us strength. Leaning on our own strength and willpower, and stood staring temptation in the face, we don’t have a hope. Especially those Christians caught in a habitual sin, they will understand that even though they know they do not want to partake in it everytime, they can’t seem to help themselves.
How can we resist temptation? By leaning on the Holy Spirit. By reading Gods Word as regularly as possible thus focusing our minds on Him, and filling our hearts with truths as opposed to the lies of temptation (Note; Jesus used scripture when resisting temptation). By fellowship with other Christians that we may learn from each other, share our problems and thoughts and encourage one another. By getting rid of those things that cause us to Sin or are a source of temptation, that could include drugs, friends, internet, music etc.
By resisting we are being obedient to the Lord. John 14:15 “If you love me, you will obey what I command”. It is our duty as followers of Jesus to strive to obey Him. Resisting temptation is one of the many ways we can Glorify our Lord. Take a look at these two portions of 1 Peter: 1 Peter 3: 1-2, and 1 Peter 3: 15-16. Remember that old saying that I have no doubt used many times within my journal? Actions speak louder than words.
