Temptation is defined as something that causes a strong urge or desire to have or do something, especially bad, wrong, or unwise. A common saying has been used to justify our giving in to temptation, which says, “The devil made me do it!” But does the Devil make you do it?
This devilment started from the beginning of creation when the serpent’s temptations brought sin and death into the world, and It further continued through humanity. Lent is so important in that its tradition brings but another example of the trickery of the devil and the temptation Jesus endured by satin during the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert before beginning his public ministry.
Scripture also tells us that satin can never make us do anything as we always have a choice. He can, however, tempt and lure us into sin, and it is because of our original sin that we fall venerable to his temptation.
John the Evangelist, in his epistle, calls these temptations “in-world” as “lust of eyes” (materialism), “lust of body” (hedonism), and “pride of life” (egoism). We must work to recognize that we are all are tempted, leave that situation causing that temptation, and read the bible until we show ourselves approved.
What are your thoughts on how we can manage temptation?
Reference Scriptures: 1 Peter 5:8 | 1 Corinthians 10:13 | 2 Corinthians 11:14 | John 16:33 | Hebrews 4:12 | James 1:14
Podcast #4: Understanding and Managing Temptation