When Temptation Knocks

Scripture:
Matthew 6:7-15 (NIV)

And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

“This, then, is how you should pray:

“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
    on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
    as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
    but deliver us from the evil one.’

For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Devotional:

I have repeated the same scripture for the last several devotions.  In doing so we broke down the Lord’s Prayer and focused on individual parts.  We talked about praising God, God’s provisions, and about forgiveness.  This final devotion I want to talk about temptation and God’s deliverance.  The chorus of Chris Tomlin’s song Whom Shall I fear puts it in a great way.

I know who goes before me
I know who stands behind me
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side
The one who reigns forever
He is a friend of mine
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side
The God of angel armies
Is always by my side

God is with us through it all.  He is by our side.  He will guide us and protect us.  Matthew 26:41 tells says this, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”  Also 1 Corinthians 10:13 states:

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

You are not alone when facing temptation.  God will deliver you.  God will provide a way out.  You just have to choose to take it.  Sometimes, OK all the time, it is best not to put yourself into temptation’s way.  But when you do get tempted just remember 1 Corinthians 10:13 and know God will help you resist and provide you a way out.  Each of us becomes tempted from time to time.  Just know you are not alone and do not have to fight the battle alone.  Reach out to someone when temptation comes calling.  Best of all reach out to Christ.