Temptation is a common problem to us all. To be tempted is not sin, but to yield to or to be overcome by such is to miss the mark – sin. Williams James wrote, “No man has matriculated in the university of life until he has been well tempted.”
When temptation comes, we must make a decision concerning it. Only from the Word of God can we find the answer and strength to respond to it in the negative. Paul says, “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand up against the wiles of the devil.” In the context of Ephesians 5:21-6:9, there apparently was the temptation for wives not to submit themselves to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22), children not to obey their parents (Ephesians 6:1) and servants to rebel against their masters (Ephesians 6:5). The temptation may have been great for some husbands not to love their wives as they should (Ephesians 5:25), for parents who mistreated and provoked their children to wrath (Ephesians 6:4) and for masters to threaten their servants (Ephesians 6:9). Paul recognized the problems in the above relationships and showed them how they could overcome such. Put on the whole armor of God!
Let me suggest, Friend, that it is not any different for us today. In all of our relationships, both in and out of the church, there are many temptations, and we, too, must put on the whole armor of God. We must arm ourselves against temptation and sin (Ephesians 6:11), flee from it (2 Timothy 2:22; Genesis 39:7-9), rejoice in it (James 1:2-3) and rise above it (James 4:7). Always be asking God’s help to overcome temptation and sin (Matthew 6:13). May God grant that we realize our weaknesses and our dependence upon Him in the hours of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).
