Don’t be tempted to act badly.

When was the last time you felt you were tempted by something? Probably this morning. We tend to think of temptation as overt – the dalliance on a road trip, the eclair in the bakery window, but sin is anything that pulls us away from God. Satan is subtle. We step into every situation with a choice. We can either resist answering in anger, selfishness, and pride or give in to it.

Jesus urged the disciples to Pray that you may not enter into temptation. (Luke 22:40) He said in the Lord’s prayer, Lead us not into temptation. (Luke 11:4) The more we pray and ask for the presence of God in us, the less likely we are to fall prey to the weakness of our flesh. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (Matt 14:38) Over time, you will look back and realize that you no longer respond in anger the way you used to because of your relationship with God. Bless is the man who endures temptation, for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (Jam 1:12) Never assume that you are above temptation. We need to be on guard every day and be in prayer. It’s not a suggestion, it’s His commandment, for a reason.