Tempted
- Michael W.
- Dec 4
- 3 min read
Choosing the Word
The human experience, since the Garden of Eden, has been defined by a constant tension: the draw of temptation versus the call to righteousness. We all face moments where our resolve is tested, our faith is shaken, and the world's allure seems strong. In these times, the question isn't if we'll be tempted, but what we will choose as our anchor. The Bible's answer is clear: Choose the Word. The example of Jesus in the wilderness provides the ultimate blueprint for victory over temptation.
The Wilderness Test: Jesus' Example
In Matthew 4:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13, we read the powerful account of Jesus being led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Hungry, weak, and alone, Jesus faced three core temptations that encapsulate the struggles we encounter today:
1. The Temptation of Provision (The Lust of the Flesh)
The devil challenged Jesus, saying, "If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread" (Matthew 4:3).
The Lure: Immediate gratification, using divine power for self-serving needs, prioritizing the physical over the spiritual.
Jesus' Response: He didn't argue or deny His hunger. He stood on Scripture: "It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God’" (Matthew 4:4, citing Deuteronomy 8:3).
Jesus reminds us that our true sustenance is found not just in physical necessities, but in obedience and connection to God's revealed will—His Word.
2. The Temptation of Prominence (The Pride of Life)
Next, the devil took Jesus to the pinnacle of the temple and urged Him to jump, quoting Psalm 91:11-12 as a perverse promise of protection.
The Lure: Seeking validation through a spectacular display, testing God, and seeking glory outside of God's timing and means.
Jesus' Response: Again, Jesus corrected the misuse of Scripture with Scripture: "Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test’" (Matthew 4:7, citing Deuteronomy 6:16).
We are tempted to force God's hand or prove ourselves. Jesus teaches us that faith is not a reckless risk to demand a miracle, but a humble trust in God’s sovereignty.
3. The Temptation of Power (The Lust of the Eyes)
Finally, the devil showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory, offering them if Jesus would just bow down and worship him.
The Lure: Earthly power, status, and control; trading eternal allegiance for temporary worldly gain.
Jesus' Response: This time, the response was swift and absolute: "Begone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve’" (Matthew 4:10, citing Deuteronomy 6:13).
When tempted by the glitter of the world, our focus must be immediately redirected to the one true God, shutting the door on compromise and reaffirming our singular devotion.
Your Strategy for Victory
Jesus could have defeated the devil in countless ways, yet He chose one method for all three temptations: "It is written." He modelled for us the essential spiritual discipline: the Word of God is our ultimate weapon and defense.
The Word is a Weapon: The Apostle Paul tells us to take up "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:17). The Word is not a passive shield; it is an active weapon to be wielded against the lies of the enemy.
The Word is an Anchor: Psalm 119:11 declares: "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." When temptation strikes, your heart must already be filled with the truth that refutes the lie.
The Word is Truth: Jesus Himself prayed, "Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth" (John 17:17). Temptation thrives on distortion and half-truths. Truth is the only thing that sets us free from its grip.
Are you being tempted today? Is it the subtle urge for instant ease, the desire for unwarranted recognition, or the tempting offer of worldly success? Don't rely on your fading willpower.
Follow your Savior's example. Don't engage in a philosophical debate with the tempter. Instead, open your Bible, recall the promises you've memorized, and declare the unwavering truth of God's Word. Choose the Word, and you choose the path to freedom.
What Scripture passage helps you stand firm when you are tempted? Share it in the comments below!
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