Resisting Temptation

"Therefore, submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." (James 4:7)

Satan approaches God's children with temptations. He disguises himself to remain unnoticed and deceives people into believing his lies.

Someone once asked, "Do you believe in Satan?" I replied, "Yes." The next question was, "Do you believe in him?" After a brief pause, I answered, "Yes, but my belief alone is not enough unless I resist him."

Just as our physical freedom has enemies, so does our spiritual freedom. A battle is constantly raging—every moment, every hour, every day—between good and evil, light and darkness. “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)

Satan uses every possible means to destroy the truth and mislead those who seek it. He deceives people in various ways. Those who follow him may experience temporary pleasure, but ultimately, it leads to ruin. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23) However, Jesus is the way, the truth, and the refuge for sinners. “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

Your goal should be to become a faithful disciple in Christ —one who resists temptation and aligns their life with God’s will. Fix your gaze upon the cross, just as Christ bore His cross and moved forward. “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

When temptations arise, see them as opportunities to draw closer to Jesus. How eager are you to reach the finish line? Run the race as Christ did—until you reach God. “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2) If you stumble, He will extend His hand to lift you up. “The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.” (Psalm 145:14)

When you walk in obedience to His will, His light will shine in you like the Sun of Righteousness (Christ). “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays.” (Malachi 4:2) His truth will not only bless you but will also cleanse and purify your soul through His divine influence. “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17)

I would like to encourage you today No matter how strong the temptation may seem, remember that God’s strength within you is greater than any challenge before you. Stand firm, for victory belongs to those who trust in Him!