James wrote in James 1:12, “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” In Matthew 4, Jesus was tempted by the devil with every temptation he could throw at Him. In verse 11 it says the devil left Him.
I believe that Satan preys on the weak in faith. First Peter 5:8 reads, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” James wrote in James 4:7, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” It only makes sense to conclude that the devil works in those who are weak in the faith; they present the least resistance. He left Jesus because of His great faith and His determination and dedication to His Father. The same holds true for us. If we deny self and take up our cross and follow Jesus as He instructed, that doesn’t leave us much time to follow Satan.
Paul said in Ephesians 6:10-11, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” So, to get back to the question, “How can I resist temptation?”
Draw close to God by studying His Word daily, by praying and asking God to help you overcome your weakness.
Staying busy in the Lord’s work, denying self and helping with the needs of others.
Be determined that you are not going to allow Satan to get hold of you to take you to eternal punishment with him.
Remember James 4:6b-7, “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble. Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” Make a decision as to who you will serve.
Remember, God’s written Word is the most powerful tool you have. Use it not only for the salvation of your own soul, but for the souls of others.
