OVERCOMING TEMPTATIONS BY SCRIPTURAL WISDOM
January 14, 2025
“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)
Beloved, as we navigate the challenges of this world, we will inevitably face temptations that seek to lead us astray. However, as children of God, we have access to the powerful wisdom of Scripture, which equips us to overcome these temptations.
In Matthew 4:1-11, we see Jesus facing temptation in the wilderness. Satan, the tempter, sought to lure Jesus away from His mission, but our Lord countered each temptation with the wisdom of Scripture. When Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread, Jesus replied, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
Similarly, when we face temptations, we can overcome them by applying Scriptural wisdom. We can recall verses like 1 Corinthians 10:13, which reminds us that God will provide a way of escape from every temptation. We can also meditate on Psalm 119:11, which encourages us to hide God’s Word in our hearts, that we might not sin against Him.
To overcome temptations, we must commit to hiding God’s Word in our hearts and applying its wisdom in our daily lives. We must also cultivate a deep understanding of God’s character and His ways, that we might be better equipped to recognise and resist temptation.
As we seek to overcome temptations by Scriptural wisdom, let’s remember that we are not alone in this battle. We have the Holy Spirit, who guides us and empowers us to resist temptation. We also have the Body of Christ, which provides support, encouragement, and accountability.
Furthermore, let’s recognise that overcoming temptation is not just about avoiding sin, but also about pursuing righteousness. As we seek to live a life that honours God, let’s focus on cultivating virtues like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
SEARCHLIGHT
Scriptural wisdom is our greatest defence against temptation.
PRAYER
Dear Father, help me to hide Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against You. Give me wisdom to recognise and resist temptation, and empower me to live a life that honours You.
BIBLE READING
Numbers 13-15, Acts 8
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
