Temptation (2)

'Each one is tempted...' James 1:14 NKJV

Sorry I missed yesterday's thought. I tried to take the morning off to spend some time in the word and rest; I need to do that occasionally. Just a reminder that tomorrow night @6:30pm @the Rees home is our August Friday Family Night. There is a pool and fire pit so please bring your swim stuff, supper fixings: hotdogs, buns, chips, smores stuff as usual. It is going to be hot so come enjoy an evening of fellowship around the pool. If you need directions (1921 Pheasant lane West Richland) please call the church or my cell.

Let's continue with how temptation affects you. Notice the three areas in which Satan tempted Christ: (1) Provision. '...Command that these stones become bread.' (Matthew 4:3 NKJV) This addresses one of our greatest fears-that if we don't look out for ourselves nobody else will. So Jesus says: 'Do not worry, saying, "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we drink?" or "What shall we wear?"...your Heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.' (Matthew 6:31-33 NKJV) (2) Protection. Satan took Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple and said, 'If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: "He shall give His angels charge over you..."' (Matthew 4:5-6 NKJV) This addresses another of our core fears-that God may not protect us. Satan whispers, 'You're on the pinnacle of success right now, but you could easily go over the edge.' When you start thinking like that-claim this promise: 'In the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion...' (Psalm 27:5 NKJV) (3) Position. 'The devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, "All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me." Then Jesus said to him, "Away with you, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve.'"' (Matthew 4:8-10 NKJV) Now, there's nothing wrong with wanting provision, protection and position. The temptation is to try and get them through your own devices and for your own ends. Trusting God instead of ourselves is a huge step spiritually. So take the step and watch what God does in your life. You are loved...