“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matthew 4:1).
We can all very easily relate to the issue of temptation. And, we can regrettably relate to Robert Orben’s accurate diagnosis of the ensuing problem. “Most people want to be delivered from temptation, but would like to keep in touch.”
God’s Word offers a precious alternative.
“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:14-16).
To that end, what can we learn from Jesus’ victories over temptation so that we might be better equipped to wage holy warfare against those things that will separate us from God? Battles will continue to be waged. What is needed so that we might be ready to stand strong in the strength which God supplies?
SERMON AUDIO :
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How do I defeat temptations?
By using the Word of God. When a temptation comes at you, and sometimes they come 'quickly' – use the words that Jesus used, in the three times He was tempted ( after His temptation in the wilderness) – read them, and study how each answer comes from God's Word, and, in one of them' Jesus puts the devil's 'Scriptures' in their 'context' –
The devil will use any means whatever to 'devour' you if he can, so, use the most powerful weapon in existence, THE WORD OF GOD. To DO this:
2 Timothy 2:
'15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.'
THEN, to keep from being devoured by Satan:
'22 Flee also youthful lusts:
but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. '
REMEMBER what the word 'FLEE' means!
MOVE, as if a lion were RIGHT BEHIND you, prepared to make a meal out of you —–
because, 'he is!!!
1 Peter 5:8
"Be sober , be vigilant ; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about , seeking whom he may devour ."
This is the 'HOW' —– !!
God's 'HOW' ——– !!
🙂