Victory over temptation

God… will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but… will also make the way of escape. – 1 Corinthians 10:13

Wanda Johnson, a single mother with five children, was on her way to the pawnshop, where she was hoping to get a loan of $60 for her TV set. Then something bizarre happened. As an armored truck filled with sacks of money drove past her, its rear door flew open, and a bag dropped out. Wanda stopped and picked up the sack. When she counted the cash, she found that it totaled $160,000.

A battle raged in her soul. That money would pay all her bills and provide for the needs of her children. But it wasn’t hers to keep.

After a fierce 4-hour struggle with her moral convictions, Wanda called the police and turned in the money. Her sense of doing the right thing won a victory over the temptation to keep what wasn’t hers.

How strong is your ethical fiber? Will it break down if you are faced with an enticing chance to do something wrong? Adam and Eve, as well as Jesus, were attacked by Satan on three fronts: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). Our first parents succumbed to the serpent’s solicitation (Genesis 3:1-6). Jesus did not (Matthew 4:1-11).

No matter what evil is pressuring us, let’s follow Jesus’ example and do what’s right. – Vernon Grounds

Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin –

Each victory will help you some other to win;

Fight manfully onward, dark passions subdue,

Look ever to Jesus – He will carry you through. – Palmer

READ: Matthew 4:1-11

To withstand temptation, stand with Christ.