At the start of his public ministry, Jesus was driven by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan (see also Mat. 4). Unlike the first man, Adam, who succumbed, Jesus was victorious.

Jesus endured and conquered temptation on our behalf.

He taught us to pray to the Father, “lead us not into temptation.”  That wording can be confusing, but James 1:13 clears it up: “...[God] tempts no one.”

The Greek word used for temptation here can mean at least 3 different things:

1. Tests and trials are part of life. James tells us to count it all joy when we are tried (James 1:2-3). A test is helpful because it shows us how far we can go to do what is right and avoid what is wrong. The “World” brings trials to us often. God uses such tests and trials to discipline us (see Hebrews 12:3-7).

2. External enticements appeal to our natural desires, such as hunger. Jesus was hungry in the wilderness and Satan pressured him to abuse his power. He tempted him with pleasure, pride and power. The “Devil” prowls like a lion (1 Pet. 5:8).

3. Internally disordered desires cause us all sorts of inner conflicts which lead into sin. The Apostle Paul describes this well in Romans 7:13-25. The “flesh” is still sinful, even for believers.

Jesus’ greatest trial was in Gethsemane the night of his arrest. He prayed “let this cup pass” but resolved to endure the Father’s will on our behalf. Help is promised when we are tempted (1 Cor. 10:13), and forgiveness is available when we fail.

Taking It Home: Google “7 Deadly Sins” and examine the list regarding your own desires. Where is your most vulnerable place? Ask God to strengthen you and make you wise in that area.