AMY, we all will suffer temptation. Why? So we’ll know what we need to do to be a overcomer!!! “Blessed is the man who ENDURES (survives) temptation; for when he HAS BEEN APPROVED, he will receive the CROWN OF LIFE which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for GOD CANNOT BE TEMPTED BY EVIL, NOR DOES HE HIMSELF TEMPT ANYONE. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by HIS OWN DESIRES and enticed.” (James 1:12-14)
We are to expect temptation. Being tempted does not mean that we are sinful, weak, or that we have done something wrong. Rather, experiencing temptation IS NORMAL. Even Jesus was tempted, yet remained without sin. James implies that withstanding temptation and loving God are one. In other words, those WHO LOVE GOD are those who WITHSTAND TEMPTATION. What must we do AMY?
“Stay alert! Watch out for the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. STAND FIRM AGAINST HIM, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is GOING THROUGH the same kind of suffering you are.” (1 Peter 5:8-9) So, AMY! “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the FLESH IS WEAK.” (Matt. 26:41)
Remember, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted BEYOND WHAT YOU ARE ABLE, but with the temptation will also MAKE THE WAY OF ESCAPE, that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Corin. 10:13)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham