Temptation. It’s tricky. I’m tempted by all sorts of things that are not in my best interest. Doritos? I’d eat them for lunch every day if I could. Netflix? Sometimes I just want to curl up and watch my favorites all day. At times I’ve even succumbed: With two bags of Doritos next to me, I’ve binge-watched away an entire weekend.
As we enter the Lenten season, a time of repentance and forgiveness, I challenge you to think deeply about sacrifice and temptation. Doritos are dang delicious and make me feel great. For a few minutes. But they’re no way to lasting health. It’s the same with spiritual issues. We’re often tempted to turn from God, to focus on our immediate pleasure. But that’s no way to achieve lasting peace and joy.
Jesus showed us how to resist temptation. After 40 days of fasting in the desert, he was famished and exhausted. Satan came to tempt him. First, he prodded Jesus to turn stones into bread. Then he goaded Jesus to jump from the top of the temple to prove his miraculous powers.
Finally Satan said he would let Jesus rule all the kingdoms of the world if he would worship him. Jesus’ response? “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only you shall serve’” (Matthew 4:10).
When you struggle with temptations both big and small, follow the lead of Jesus. Cut out the earthly distractions, and rely upon God and his Word to stand strong. It’s not easy, but it’s the ultimate solution to a life well lived.
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