Beloved, today is three days into the New Year, the dusty road with Jesus was a difficult one–one of my co-workers encountered a personal tragedy. Her little brother is safe in the arms of Jesus. Death is hard enough when you are my age but when you are young it just doesn’t seem fair. Yet, none of us are promised tomorrow.
Bible Reading
Our Bible reading is Genesis 3-5 when Eve is tempted by the serpent. The words stand out, “Did God really say, ‘You can’t eat from any tree in the garden?’ Satan brings out and causes the woman to question what God has said to her. She even adds to it, that they can not eat it or touch it, or you will die!”
Satan comes right back reassuring her, “No! you will certainly not die.”
Our word is temptation. The definition of temptation is the desire to do something, especially something wrong or unwise. Temptation is in the Bible thirteen times.
Perhaps the most helpful verse on temptation is found in 1 Corinthians,
No temptation has come upon you except what is common to humanity. But God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10: 13
Thoughts
Adam and Eve sin and then more sin occurs in the rest of the chapters. We see Cain grow up and not offer a worthy offering to God. Then jealousy and strife enters and murder. Our reading for tomorrow is Genesis 6-7. As I reflected on temptation, my own struggle is once I give in, it is hard to stop. Like with sugar. Can you relate? Do you have a particular area that you are struggling with where you are tempted to sin? Perhaps spending beyond your budget, or overeating your calories.
Overcome
How do we overcome temptation? We enter His gates with thanksgiving and praise. Remain in God’s word. It is hard to be disobedient when you are reading God’s word and praying. Lastly, pray for others.
Prayer
Father God, I pray for my friend tonight, I know the sadness is overwhelming to her and her family. May they rejoice in knowing that their loved one is safe with you. Protect us from sin dear Lord. In Jesus’s name Amen
Read Genesis 6-7 for tomorrow.
2 Comments
Rachelle
January 4, 2024 at 4:30 amMy heart goes out to your friend and her family! I’m praying for peace, strength and comfort for them. May God hold them close and bless them!
Shannan
January 4, 2024 at 3:30 pmI have found out that overcoming temptation without God is impossible for me. I cannot do it on my own. I’m still struggling with diet and exercise. It’s an ongoing battle for me. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. Protect us from sin dear Lord, Amen