Flee Temptation
The Bible states that temptations are common to man. In other words, everyone has been tempted and will be tempted over and again in his life. Even the Lord, Himself, was tempted in all ways just as we are tempted. (Heb. 4.15) The dictionary defines temptation as allurement or enticement. When used in the Bible, it refers to being enticed to sin. Temptation is not sin, but if not resisted, it will lead to sin. Neal Maxwell once said: “If we entertain temptations, soon they will be entertaining us.”
I have often taught that temptation is like the “no man’s land” between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness; between sin and holiness. If one lives in holiness, which is the center of God’s will, when he falls, he will fall into temptation. But, if one lives in the place of temptation, when he falls, he will fall into sin. When one finds himself in the place of temptation, one must quickly flee. Satan is very subtle in making sin attractive, and in diminishing its consequences. He employs tactics to disguise temptations as being true to oneself and pleasurable to the senses. C.S. Lewis, in his book, Screwtape Letters, wrote from the devil’s perspective saying: “the safest road to Hell is the gradual one – the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts.”
It is much easier to resist temptation at the beginning than at the end. When Jesus was tempted by the devil, He cut the conversation short by resisting with the Word of God. He didn’t think it over, analyze the pros and cons, nor let time go by. Jesus reacted quickly with the Sword of the Spirit. Temptation is deceptive. The source of temptation is not only the devil, but also from the yearnings of our sinful nature. It is like being in a pastry shop, starring at all the wonderful cakes and pastries on the self. You know you should resist and keep to a healthy diet, but oh they look so good. Inside you know you should say: “Get behind me Satan”, and yet you add, “and push”. Its best to just flee. Get away from the place of temptation.
To be strong to resist in the day of temptation, one must have a clear understanding of sin. Romans 6.23 says: “the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Also in James 1.15: “Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.” There are dire consequences for sin. You must hate sin to be able to resist the enemy and flee temptation. Just think of this day as being your last. What would you like to do? Would you fill your day with sinful experiences, or would you rather share about Jesus with those you love?
This “no man’s land” is between the darkness and the light. It is a place in the shadows. To resist temptation is to turn on the light. Don’t hide your faith. Let everyone know in whom you believe and what Jesus has done in your life. Avoid the places and people that entice you to sin. A true friend will want what is best for you, not for you to share with them in the destructive consequences of sin. Bring them to Christ. Don’t let them bring you to Hell. Beware of thinking that you are the only one who has had to endure what you are going through. Temptations are a human reality and God is present to sustain you in the midst of them all. No temptation is too difficult to resist. God always makes a way of escape.
Scriptures to meditate on:
James 1.12-15; 4.7; Mat. 26.41; Heb. 2.18; 4.15; I Cor. 10.13; Luke 17.1
The verses in your devotional state that ‘death’ is the consequence of sin. ‘Hell’ is never said to be a consequence of sin. I’m not trying to be disrespectful, but it seems like tradition has a tendency to drown out Scripture at times. Perhaps visit “Rethinking Hell” and read respected Christian leaders discussing this topic. Blessings!