September 15, 2023

How to Handle Temptation

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-17

When Satan tempted Him in the wilderness, the Lord didn’t utter anything without first saying, “It is written.” (See Matthew 4:1-25.) Jesus knew Satan could not stand under the power of God’s Word.

Ephesians 6 describes the believer’s spiritual armor—God’s provision for His children when they face pressure from the enemy. Most of the armor is defensive equipment; the sole offensive weapon is the sword of the Spirit, which is the Bible, and it’s our best shot in spiritual battles. However, you can’t remember to do something you don’t know, so it’s important to spend time with the heavenly Father every day, studying Scripture and committing its truths to heart.

Start “putting on” the armor of God every day. Try praying through Ephesians 6:10-17 in the morning. And if you struggle with a particular sin, steer clear of situations that make such a temptation more likely. You may even find it helpful to have an accountability partner—someone who can be honest and with whom you will be comfortable. Steps like these help us resist Satan, who we know from Scripture will flee in the presence of God’s Word.

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