Temptation is simply a life test customized for you, and your unique circumstances. The allure of temptation often appears irresistible. This is because temptation always offers the forbidden fruit wrapped in an appealing package, especially when you need it most.
The rule of thumb is that, if you fall for it, you lose. Many have lost valuable value and virtue in the battlefield of temptation.
But temptation has a positive value that is released only when you pass the test.
The Bible is replete with records of people who failed their tests. But we don’t speak enough about those who passed their tests.
Everyone will be tested
Have you been tested and tempted? Even Jesus, the only begotten son of God was tempted.
In the Gospel of Matthew, the story of Jesus's forty days and nights in the wilderness exemplifies the ultimate test of resilience in the face of temptation.
Hungry and alone, Jesus was severely tested by the devil. Yet, despite the allure of earthly pleasures and power, Jesus stood up to the tempter on three separate occasions.
Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test” (Matthew 4:7, NIV).
The battlefield of lust
We live in a world where everyone wants to satisfy every craving of their hearts and bodies. The courage to say no to unregulated desires is waning by the day.
If you find yourself on the battlefield of lust – which is essentially everywhere these days, remember Joseph.
The book of Genesis narrates the gripping account of a young man who, in the throes of adversity and betrayal, resisted the seduction of his master's wife.
Despite her persistent advances, Joseph remained steadfast in his devotion to righteousness, declaring:
How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9, NIV).
For Joseph, it was a pleasure forgone. He could have had it – but chose not to.
After the temptation
The triumphs of Jesus and Joseph serve as beacons of hope, illustrating the transformative benefits that await those who steadfastly resist the snares of temptation.
Overcoming temptation guarantees divine elevation
Joseph initially paid for his integrity by landing a prison term based on a false allegation of his master’s wife.
However, the prison became his stepping stone to glory. He quickly became the chief prisoner, and later supernaturally promoted to one of the highest offices in the land.
Your stance against temptation may be painful for a while, but if you hold on long enough, the rewards will come.
Overcoming temptation attracts angelic attention
Let’s consider what happened to Jesus after He dispatched the tempter.
Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him (Matthew 4:11, NIV).
Look at that! The angels were waiting to attend to Him once He passed the test.
Jesus's victory over temptation marked the beginning of His glorious public ministry, propelling Him towards His eternal purpose.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, the stories of Jesus and Joseph offer timeless lessons on the transformative power of resisting and overcoming temptation.
Both stories emphasize a profound reality - on the other side of temptation lies the assurance of glory, angelic attention, and divine promotion.
Your choice in a temptation could define the rest of your life and into eternity. Choose responsibly!