Using The Scriptures Wisely In Times Of Temptation

By Pastor Jose B. Cabajar

 

       It may sound funny, but we really believe that only the dead people have no temptations in life. Temptations come to our lives in many ways. Some could be easily perceived, but some are hardly detected by man’s senses. Using our own intelligence to guard us from temptations is unreliable.

 

       The temptation of Jesus accounted in the Book of Matthew is a must-read of every person who wants to be victorious in the spiritual battle. It helps us to realize that the Word of God is an excellent weapon to be used in overcoming temptations. The Bible reminds us of the need of having the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

 

       One important thing we could learn from the Lord is the way He used the Scriptures against Satan’s crafty offer. How we wish to have that kind of wisdom in handling temptations. In Matthew 4:1-4, we see how the Lord used the Word of God wisely and powerfully. Firstly, we realize the importance of memorizing and quoting verses from the Bible. It seems that many professing believers don’t even have the desire to intelligently memorize passages from the Bible. And sad to say, some people even avoid reading the Word of God. No doubt, when the tempter attacks them, they become an easy prey.

 

       Secondly, we could appreciate the importance of discerning false usage of the Scripture. We must keep in mind that the devil also uses passages from the Bible to trap his potential victim. Truly, Christians must be aware of the presence of false teachers who wear sheep clothing. We really need to pray and learn more about the Word of God so we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

 

       Thirdly, we could realize the importance of submitting to God and the need to resist the devil’s offer. Many have been victimized by the adversary because they never submitted themselves to God, neither resisted the devil, not knowing that such defenses could drive the devil away. In James 4:7, it says, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (KJV)

 

       (I) Excellent Word To Live By

Matthew 4:1-4

-It strengthens the inner man

-It gives spiritual wisdom

-It produces faith

-It draws us closer to God

-It keeps us away from the lust of the flesh

 

(II) Excellent Warning To Take Heed

Matthew 4:5-7

-It keeps us away from the Devil’s trap

-It keeps us away from the pride of life

 

(III) Excellent Conviction To Stand For

Matthew 4:8-11

-It guards us away from the lust of the eyes

-It guards us from false worship

-It keeps us faithful to God

-It leads us to a victorious life

 

       As we see more people being enticed, ensnared, enslaved and destroyed by the devil, the more we should love the Word of God and apply it in our daily lives. In Philippians 2:12-16, it is written, Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (KJV) Through these verses, we are reminded that God is working in us, but it’s our responsibility to make it manifest that we are the children of God shining as lights in the world.

 

       The devil is much aware of his limited time and that’s simply the reason why he is intensifying his evil works. On the other hand, Christian should be aware also of the shortness of life so they may not waste their time, but use their lives in spreading the Gospel of Christ throughout the whole world. Surely, the devil is not happy to see Christian fulfilling the Great Commission. Consequently, he will tempt more believers like what he did to the Lord in the wilderness, but we praise God because we are on the winning side.

 

       Undoubtedly, many Christians today are under severe attacks by the adversary. Be watchful and prayerful! Fight a good fight and remember to use the Word of God wisely. Be courageous and be aware that the victory is ours.