2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Numbers 30:1-31:54 ESV, Luke 4:1-30 ESV, Psalm 63:1-11 ESV, Proverbs 11:20-21 ESV
Daily Verse: “And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.” (Luke 4:13 ESV)
PEIRASMOS (3986): “Trials with a beneficial purpose and effect, of trials or temptations divinely permitted or sent.” [I]
Beneficial purpose.
Temptations benefit us, learning to deal with them; we will develop a closer walk with God. Jesus teaches us how to handle trials; use God’s word.
Jesus begins His ministry by fasting and praying for 40 days in the wilderness. Satan, realizing Jesus’ weakness from starvation, begins his attack. First, the devil physically tempts Jesus by addressing His hunger, then emotionally by questioning God’s love, and lastly, control.
Everyone battles the same temptations Jesus did. Physical trials include overuse of food or alcohol and lack of activity, to name a few; all humans question not only God’s love but existence at some point or another. And not a person alive doesn’t want to control their destiny but can’t, no matter how hard they try.
Defeat the devil.
Temptation’s benefit comes from the preparation. Satan attacked Jesus at His weakest, after 40 days of fasting and prayer, but Jesus defeated Him because of His preparation. Knowing, trusting, and applying the scriptures gives you victory over the devil.
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV)
Satan looks for opportune times to attack. You can defeat him by spending time with God daily, studying His Word, and applying it to your life. Each day, God will bring you new victory as you place your trust in Him. Where God guides, He provides; if you find yourself in a time of temptation, look for the way out.
Stand firm in the face of temptation. Use God’s Word to respond to the devil’s attacks. Victory comes through Christ.
[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p. 196) Thomas Nelson
